Wamp Speaks out for Veterans Aid – Can’t Argue With That

Op-ed by Zach Wamp (R-TN

How fortunate we are to live, work and worship freely in this great nation; however, throughout history, these things have come at a high cost. Our independence is only possible because of those who came before us and died to defend it. Maintaining liberty is arduous work and there are times we must show the world that we believe in freedom enough to fight for it. This is how we preserve our way of life and hand down the mantle of freedom to each new generation.

Our nation’s Army is serving in nearly 80 countries worldwide. We owe them a debt of gratitude and must take care of our soldiers, and their families, who are making great sacrifices to defend our country.  I urge members of Congress to stand up for our soldiers and their families.  Let us be united behind the ideals of showing our gratitude and indebtedness to our American heroes.

At a recent House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs hearing, I heard testimony on the quality of life in the U.S. Army and details on the Army’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2009. Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr. and Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations and Environment Keith Eastin discussed the future direction of the U.S. Army at the hearing.

In his testimony, General Casey said, “The cumulative effects of 6-plus years at war have put us out of balance. The current demands on our forces exceed the sustainable supply. While we are out of balance, we are neither broken, nor hollow. But, as I think we all acknowledge, we are not where we need to be.”
This country owes a huge debt to the men and women who fought to protect it.  Not only must we keep our promises of health care benefits to America’s military retirees and make it easier for veterans and service members to pay educational tuition bills, we must also renew our commitment to keeping our military strong, well-equipped, and cutting edge.  Strain on our current forces makes the job of caring for future veterans harder.

Democrats would like to introduce new cuts on our current military in an act that clearly flies in the face of General Casey’s calm and definitive plea for continued support. In a time of national crisis and multiple wars, what we need is a strong commitment to keeping our current service-members safe and showing gratitude to those who have come before them.
I urge my colleagues to remember their commitment to our nation’s military and veterans during tomorrow’s deliberations.

One of the most important responsibilities we have as Members of the United States Congress is to provide the best national security we possibly can to keep Americans safe and ensure adequate support for and appreciation of our nation’s veterans. Freedom and responsibility are intertwined. The most significant demonstration of this responsibility for others has been shown by the bravery, courage and sacrifice of America’s veterans.  Let us hope and pray that Members of Congress can rise to their responsibility tomorrow.

Advertisement