S14382 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME wonderful young men and women at risk, globe, some of which are still ongoing. many of whom have lost their lives, and we The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Today our men and women in uniform have asked for nothing except enough ground are waging a fight against terrorism ENZI). Under the previous order, leader- to bury them in. ship time is reserved. and, at the same time, are partici- It is right and proper for the Senate pating in ongoing military operations f to remember the young men and in Iraq. MORNING BUSINESS women who have served our great Na- As we commemorate Veterans Day, tion in uniform and those who did not 2003, we should reflect on the sac- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under return because they made the ultimate rifices—past, present, and future—that the previous order, there will be a pe- sacrifice. are made by our men and women in riod for the transaction of morning Veterans share a common bond. We uniform and their families. We should business until the hour of 12 p.m., with are truly comrades in the deepest sense also resolve to do more for our vet- the time equally divided between the of the word, and I salute each one of erans to ensure they have a decent Senator from Texas or her designee, them. standard of living and adequate health and the Democratic leader or his des- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- care. ignee. ator from Wisconsin is recognized. This is especially important as we The Senator from Texas is recog- Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, as the welcome home a new generation of vet- nized. country marks the Veterans Day holi- erans who are serving in Iraq and in Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I day, I wish to take a moment to ex- the fight against terrorism. Today’s yield 7 minutes to the senior Senator press my thanks to the people of Wis- soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines from Alaska. consin and to our Nation’s veterans are tomorrow’s veterans. These men The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- and their families. and women selflessly put their lives on ator from Alaska is recognized. I urge my colleagues and all Ameri- the line as the countless military per- f cans to take a moment today to reflect sonnel before them whom we honor upon the meaning of this day and to re- VETERANS DAY today. We must ensure that their serv- member those who have served and sac- ice and sacrifice, which is much lauded Mr. STEVENS. Mr. President, it has rificed to protect our country and the during times of conflict, is not forgot- been over 50 years since my good freedoms we enjoy as Americans. ten once the battles have ended and friends, Senator INOUYE, Senator HOL- Webster’s Dictionary defines a vet- our troops come home. LINGS, Senator WARNER, Senator LAU- eran as ‘‘one with a long record of serv- For that reason, I am committed to TENBERG, Senator AKAKA, and I re- ice in a particular activity or capac- ensuring that the Department of Vet- turned home from World War II. When ity’’ or ‘‘one who has been in the armed erans Affairs makes every effort to I joined the Senate in 1968, approxi- forces.’’ But we can also define a vet- educate our veterans about benefits for mately half of the Members of the Sen- eran as a grandfather or a grand- which they may be eligible through the ate were World War II veterans. While mother, a father or a mother, a brother VA. there are several Senators here who or a sister, a son or a daughter, or a Our veterans and their families have have served in Korea, Vietnam, and in friend. Veterans live in all of our com- made great personal sacrifices to pro- later engagements, there are a few of munities, and their contributions have tect our freedoms. Making sure our us still around who lived through touched all of our lives. veterans know about the benefits they World War II. We are proud of a tradi- November 11 is a date with special have earned is an important first step tion of over 48 million Americans who significance in our history. On that day in starting to repay this debt. That is have served in our Armed Forces since in 1918, at the 11th hour of the 11th day why I am fighting to overturn a VA 1776. of the 11th month, World War I ended. policy that prevents the agency from Whenever our Nation has needed war- In 1926, a joint resolution of Congress reaching out to veterans who may be riors to defend our Nation, young men called on the President to issue a proc- eligible for health care benefits, and and women in uniform have stepped lamation to encourage all Americans that is why I have introduced legisla- forward, willing to bear that burden. to mark this day by displaying the U.S. tion to improve the VA’s outreach to This day, Veterans Day, is a reminder flag and by observing the day with ap- veterans. to us of their courage, bravery, and propriate ceremonies. In addition, I continue to hear from sacrifice. In 1938, Armistice Day was des- many Wisconsin veterans about the These days, our thoughts are never ignated as a legal holiday ‘‘to be dedi- need to improve claims processing at far from a battlefield. New generations cated to the cause of world peace’’ by the VA. These veterans are justifiably have answered the call to service, and an act of Congress. This annual rec- angry and frustrated about the amount as we meet today, they are defending ognition of the contributions and sac- of time it takes for the Veterans’ Ad- us in some of the most dangerous rifices of our Nation’s veterans of ministration to process their claims. In places in the world, where they face de- World War I was renamed Veterans some instances, veterans are waiting termined enemies and terrorists. I join Day in 1954 so that we might also rec- well over a year. Telling the men and all here today in thanking each of ognize the service and sacrifice of women who served our country in the them for their service and thank their those who had fought in World War II Armed Forces that they ‘‘just have to families for their sacrifice. and the veterans of all of America’s wait’’ is wrong and unacceptable. I had the honor to serve in the Army other wars. Last month, the VA issued a press re- Air Corps with a squadron in China in Our Nation’s veterans and their fami- lease declaring ‘‘partial victory’’ in its World War II. Our squadron motto was: lies have given selflessly to the cause efforts to reduce the number of pending We do the impossible immediately, of protecting our freedom. Too many claims. The release noted that the VA miracles take slightly longer. have given the ultimate sacrifice for has reduced its claims backlog from The history of our Nation’s Armed their country on the battlefields of the 432,000 to 253,000 over the last 2 years. I Forces is one of impossible challenges Revolutionary War that gave birth to am pleased the VA has made claims and formidable enemies. But our men the United States, to the Civil War processing a priority, but there is and women in uniform have met and which sought to secure for all Ameri- much more work to be done. I urge the overcome them on battlefields, and in cans the freedoms envisioned by the Secretary to continue this effort to re- the air, and on the sea and, as our Founding Fathers, to the global fight duce the claims backlog. The more Chaplain reminded us, under the sea, against nazism and fascism in World than a quarter of a million veterans across the globe. War II. who are still waiting to have their Secretary of State Colin Powell re- In the last century, Americans claims processed, coupled with the cently spoke of the tradition of service fought and died in two World Wars and thousands of new veterans returning and said: in conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the from the battlefield of Iraq and Af- We have gone forth from our shores repeat- Persian Gulf. They also participated in ghanistan, deserve the concerted effort edly over the last hundred years . . . and put peacekeeping missions around the of the VA and the Pentagon to process

VerDate jul 14 2003 00:01 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.005 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14383 claims quickly and to educate new vet- have been privileged to be associated, I I suppose if we have a weakness in erans about their benefits in an effec- would not be here in the Senate. That terms of our recognition, it is identi- tive and clear manner that may help to is why I labor with others, primarily fying what others have done for us to prevent the filing of additional claims those on the Armed Services Com- be able to have the freedoms we enjoy in the future. mittee, to do what we can for today’s and have done for so many years. I I am looking forward to continuing veterans and, most importantly, for think it is appropriate we set this day to meet with veterans and their fami- those who are still in uniform and aside not only to recognize those who lies around Wisconsin to hear directly those who will follow in uniform in the have done so much but, frankly, to en- from them what services they need and generations to come, together with sure young people understand the sac- what gaps remain in the VA system. their families. rifices that have been made. We want So on Veterans Day, and throughout I speak in gratitude from my heart to people who were not around at all in the year, let us continue to honor all the veterans and, indeed, for what World War II, Korea, or even Vietnam America’s brave veterans and their the military did for this humble soul to to understand what has happened. families. make it possible through the GI bill Dwight Eisenhower once said that: I yield the floor. twice. I received it once for World War War demands real toughness of fiber, not The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- II and once for brief service again in only in the soldiers who must endure, but in ator from Texas. Korea. Again, my heart is filled with the homes that must sacrifice their best. Mrs. HUTCHISON. I yield up to 7 gratitude, and it is such a magnificent That is true. All families sacrifice as minutes to the Senator from Virginia, day to rise and reflect. well. This morning, we visited a VA Mr. WARNER. Back in World War II, I remember on hospital in DC. We visited with a num- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- our block, when our neighbors were ber of veterans who were being treated ator from Virginia is recognized. lost in battle, a gold star went on their in that hospital, some from World War Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, I rise door to remind all of the sacrifices of II who had done so much. to join my colleagues on this magnifi- that family. And on the other doors Today we honor those who made cent day which we set aside for the vet- were a little decal which said: We these sacrifices, in many cases the ulti- erans of all of our wars. proudly have our son in the Army, the mate sacrifice in defense of liberty, As I was presiding at the time we Navy, the Air Corps, the Marines, the justice, and democracy. We are en- took a moment of silence, I reflected Coast Guard. gaged today in the struggle which will Those were days when there was ab- back to 1918 when the guns fell silent test our national resolve, and I hope solute sacrifice all across the Nation. at 11 o’clock across the trenches in Eu- today helps us to understand the im- Today, this Nation again is united. We rope. There was a young doctor there portance of that resolve. A new genera- stand strong behind our men and who had been wounded, who had been tion of Americans has answered the women of the Armed Forces, as it decorated, but he was still at his post call and is defending our country. should be. So by the grace of God, by in the trenches when that hour arrived. Today, as we commemorate and the sacrifices of all who have gone be- That was my father. honor those who have gone before, we fore us, we stand humbly today and ex- I read a poem in his honor and in must remember the brave souls cur- press our gratitude to them and their honor of all veterans which reflects my rently serving in harm’s way. We must understanding and my deep belief and families. I ask unanimous consent that a list renew our commitment to the ideals gratitude to veterans. It is called ‘‘In of United States service personnel cas- for which so many have fought and Flanders Fields’’: ualties be printed in the RECORD. died. We must never forget freedom has In Flanders fields the poppies blow There being no objection, the mate- a very high price indeed. That price has Between the crosses, row on row. rial was ordered to be printed in the been paid by our Nation’s veterans and That mark our place; and in the sky RECORD, as follows: their families. The larks, still bravely singing, fly I was impressed when I think it was Scarce heard amid the guns below. U.S. SERVICE PERSONNEL CASUALTIES the commandant of the Marine Corps We are the Dead. Short days ago who said there is a direct connection We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Total cas- Killed in Wounded Loved and were loved, and now we lie Contingency ualties action in action between the land of the free and the In Flanders fields. (KIA/WIA) (KIA) (WIA) home of the brave. That is true. Today we say thank you on behalf of Take up our quarrel with the foe: World War I ...... 321,000 115,000 206,000 To you from failing hands we throw World War II ...... 1,077,245 405,399 671,846 a very grateful Nation. We are ex- Korea ...... 139,852 36,568 103,284 The torch; be yours to hold it high. Vietnam ...... 211,506 58,203 153,303 tremely proud of all the veterans have If ye break faith with us who die Afghanistan ...... 252 31 221 done. We shall not sleep, though poppies grow Iraq ...... 2,336 398 1,938 I ask unanimous consent the poem In Flanders fields. ‘‘A Cowboy Defends Us’’ be printed in I wear one of those poppies on this Mr. WARNER. I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the RECORD. Veterans Day. It is issued by the vet- ator from Texas. There being no objections, the mate- erans organizations all across America Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I rial was ordered to be printed in the in reverence to those who have gone yield up to 4 minutes to the Senator RECORD, as follows: before us to make it possible today to from Wyoming, Mr. THOMAS. A COWBOY DEFENDS US exercise free speech. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- (By Tina Willis, Apr. 9, 2003) My distinguished colleague, Senator ator from Wyoming. I wonder what it means to you STEVENS, my friend of these 25 years in Mr. THOMAS. Mr. President, we all When you see the flutter of red, white, and the Senate, just mentioned that there rise to recognize this day. As we think blue are five of us who are here who served about it, I suspect there is no other day I think of American history and days that in World War II. My record pales of recognition that has as much bear- are gone against his record, Senator HOLLINGS, ing on the freedoms we enjoy as this I think of our troops in Iraq and Iran Senator INOUYE, and others. But I was day of recognizing veterans. It is so im- I think of the folks that settled this west privileged as a very young 17-year-old portant that we take time to recognize Who’ve raised sons and daughters and offered to volunteer and take up my respon- and honor those men and women who their best sibilities, as did all in my generation in These children traded a tractor for a have worn this country’s uniform. humvee’s rough ride those days. Yet the heavy lifting, the Certainly, as we think about it And their parents now wait with no sleep but heavy work, the heavy losses had been today, our thoughts are primarily fo- much pride done that went before us, and in 1945, cused on those men and women now I think of the cowboy called to duty today when I was simply in a training com- serving overseas in Iraq, Afghanistan, Throwing his pony a last flake of hay mand, the war ended. and other places. Of course, histori- Before boarding a bus in this dawn’s early I say that only because had it not cally we have many things to think light been for what the U.S. military has about: Those who have given so much As he joins the forces to fight the good fight done for me in these 58 years that I so we can continue to live in freedom. I think of the bunkhouse with one empty bed

VerDate jul 14 2003 03:40 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.008 S11PT1 S14384 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 There’s a tent in the sand where he’ll now bility of what is clearly still a dan- who serve in uniform. America’s vet- lay his head gerous and unpredictable world. erans are the rock on which we have As I savor my freedom and pray for our After 9/11, President Bush said: defended America’s shores and are the troops In the months ahead, our patience will be reason our President can make such I think of the cowboys that now wear infan- one of our strengths . . . patience and under- try boots promises. standing that it will take time to achieve May God bless our veterans for their Their instincts and courage were learned on our goals; patience in all the sacrifices that service, and may He continue to bless the range may come. America. They’re taking care of the homestead—with Today, sacrifices are being made by a scenery change The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- our troops who defend us far from ator from Texas. Our nation is safer and stronger today home, and by their proud yet worried Because some cowboy defends us—time zones Mrs. HUTCHISON. I yield up to 3 away families. The sacrifices they make are minutes to the Senator from Idaho, Mr. the same sacrifices made by those who And I wonder what it means to you CRAIG. served before them. We ask an awful When you see the flutter of red, white, and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- blue. . . . lot of those who wear the uniform. We ator from Idaho. ask them to leave their loved ones, to Mr. THOMAS. I yield the floor. Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, let me travel great distances, to risk injury, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- thank the Senator from Texas for tak- even risk death. They are dedicated, ator from Texas. ing out this special order this morning. they are honorable, and they represent Mrs. HUTCHISON. I yield up to 4 I join with all Idahoans and all Amer- the very best of our country. We are in- minutes to the senior Senator from icans to pause during Veterans Day to deed grateful for these countless sac- honor the service of all our American Missouri, Mr. BOND. rifices. We can never repay our debt to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- soldiers. It is a day set apart to cele- those who serve our Nation, but we can brate peace and freedom through cere- ator from Missouri. ensure they know they will never be Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I thank my forgotten. Today, we have some very monies of thanksgiving and prayer. It colleague from Texas and the others real reminders of the cost of freedom. is a day dedicated to the men and who have spoken. It is an absolute that we would not women whose great sacrifices made it It is a great honor and privilege to be enjoy the freedoms we have today were possible that we might pause to recog- on the Senate floor on this Veterans it not for the willingness of our men nize them, to pray and to give thanks. Day to acknowledge the sacrifices of and women to serve each of us and our Sadly, however, as battles fade, so do America’s veterans and the priceless country by committing to fight on our the memories of our soldiers, and what service our veterans have rendered to a behalf in the armed services. was once a fervent memory becomes grateful Nation. We are fighting every day on the but a passing one of only photographs Earlier this morning Senator THOM- many fronts around the world and and pictures of men and women who AS, Senator INHOFE, and I visited the those of us in this body work to pro- served their country. Washington VA hospital to say thank vide not only the resources we need to But this is beginning to change. you. Previously, I had been to Walter ensure that our men and women in the As our Nation reaches out to free op- Reed and Bethesda National Naval field are the best trained, best pressed people around the world, a new Medical Center, as I know many Mem- equipped, best prepared, and the best generation of American soldiers is join- bers have, to say thanks also to those protected, but we also work to ensure ing the honored body of U.S. veterans. returning from the current war. In all we meet the commitments made to our Men and women who fought and con- of these visits and in everything we do, veterans who have served in the past. tinue to fight in Iraq are bringing fresh we should express our thankful appre- As former Secretary of Defense Wil- faces and new experiences to the legacy ciation to America’s veterans, particu- liam Cohen once said, we are ‘‘unwill- of those who have gone before. Troops larly while we find ourselves embroiled ing to live in a world in which evil tri- stationed in Afghanistan work to in a war against those seeking to de- umphs. And as a result, the flag of free- maintain the standard of freedom oth- stroy all America stands for, what we dom flies not only over America, but ers obtained for us in the past. These hold most dear, our freedom. over those countries whose people had soldiers are expanding the image of It is the soldier, sailor, airman, and to yield to the terror of tyranny and American veterans as they stand for the marine to whom we have turned for under the heel of boots of dictators.’’ liberty and redefine the world. protection from terrorists and the Our veterans have kept the flame of Like the soldiers before them, to- failed nation states that support them. freedom alive, and they are a true re- day’s members of the armed services Our troops are performing in an exem- flection of the American spirit. are risking everything to ensure the plary manner, taking the fight to those There are many accolades for vet- freedom and happiness of their fellow who would harm us on enemy territory erans, but the one I like best is from Americans. On a daily basis, they lay and on our terms. The events of Sep- Father Dennis Edward O’Brien’s ‘‘What their lives on the line to face an unsure tember 11 and the military operations Is A Vet?’’ and dangerous future. Some of them that have ensued since then have He is an ordinary yet extraordinary human pay the ultimate cost and remind us all brought a renewed understanding and being, a person who offered some of his life’s that freedom is not free. respect for our Nation’s military and most vital years in the service of his country Exactly who are the new veterans? our veterans. and who sacrificed his ambitions so others They are just like you. They are fa- would not have to sacrifice theirs . . . In response to the horrendous acts He is a soldier and savior and a sword thers and mothers whose children anx- carried out on 9/11, our men and women against the darkness, and his is nothing iously await their return. They are in uniform have taken action, as our more than the finest, greatest testimony on sons and daughters whose parents veterans have done countless times behalf of the finest, greatest nation ever proudly boast to their neighbors. They throughout history. known. are students, graduates, neighbors, and We are fighting the war on terrorism So remember, each time you see someone friends. They are people in our State, who served our country, just lean over and on many fronts, using all the tools at say thank you. That is all most people need, our hearts, and our homes. our disposal. We will win this conflict and in most cases will mean more than any For many people, this newest fight through the patient accumulation of medals they could have been awarded or for liberty is bringing home the reality successes, by meeting a series of chal- were awarded. of war. A veteran is no longer an unfa- lenges with determination, with will President Bush said it best when he miliar face in an old black and white and with purpose. This campaign is a described the will of our Nation by say- photograph. The price of freedom is no marathon, not a sprint. We must be ing: longer a thing of the past—it is our mindful to think not only in the near We will not waiver; we will not tire; we present and our future. With a new term but to look ahead 5, 10, 15 years will not falter; and we will not fail. Peace generation of young soldiers fighting and to take this opportunity to shape and freedom will prevail. for our Nation, we are forcefully re- our future world. We must find a way That peace and freedom will prevail minded of the sacrifices previous vet- to help contribute to the peace and sta- because of the commitment of those erans have paid for our happiness.

VerDate jul 14 2003 03:40 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.008 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14385 In the nearly 80 years since Congress the air. We are going to have peace. I their lives so that others may be free. first marked November 11th as a day to don’t want any of you dying while we Today I would like to remind everyone recognize and honor veterans, the are about to have peace. So he shep- that those lives lost were not in vain. image of the American veteran has herded all of them and put them under Because of these individual sacrifices been changing. Time has gradually bridges in the Argonne Forest, saying: we are able today to remain the great- brought a seasoned maturity of age to Hide for 24 hours because I sense that est free nation in the world. the once youthful faces of American there will be no war in 24 hours and I I would like to mention my personal soldiers. Sons have turned into fathers don’t want you dying. pride for the men and women from Mis- and fathers into grandfathers as each Sure enough, within 24 hours the war sissippi who so bravely currently serve generation replaced the last. was over. My father used to write to and have served their nation in de- Following the terrible attacks on our this captain, who lived in Illinois, and fense. homeland two years ago, President thank him for taking good care of him During the Vietnam War, 637 Mis- George W. Bush declared: in the midst of that war, in the Ar- sissippians gave their lives. In the Ko- Americans should always honor our vet- gonne Forest, as a non-American who rean Conflict, from 1950 to 1957, 412 of erans. At this moment, we especially need had become an American citizen by our statesmen made the ultimate sac- the example of their character. And we need getting drafted and serving. Just as all rifice. a new generation to set examples of its own, our other veterans, he was very proud. Since the horrific day that will for- examples in service and sacrifice and cour- Today we have so many millions of ever be remembered, September 11, age. American men and women who, one 2001, Mississippi has lost nine soldiers Today we see the fulfillment of this way or another, were like my father. during Operations Enduring Freedom challenge. We see a rising generation of They went off to serve their country. and Iraqi Freedom. new veterans fighting for the American They have had times of great fear. More than 3000 of Mississippi’s sons people. They have had times of great concern. and daughters have responded to this To the veterans of our past and They have had times when there was Nations latest call for arms in the present, we thank you. We honor your heroism all around them. global war on terrorism, and oper- service, commend your example, and I close today by saying something to ations in Afghanistan in Iraq. remember your sacrifice. While some of all of them. In all of our wars—I know Unlike previous wars, the veterans of us may never fully understand the sig- a little about the First World War be- these latest operations will probably nificance of your labor, we all feel your cause of my father, as I told you—but not have battle names to remember impact on our Nation and our lives. from all of the wars, I thank them all like Leyte Gulf or Vicksburg. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- on behalf of the people of my State for As the President has said, the global ator from Texas. what they have done to preserve the war on terror is a different kind of war, Mrs. HUTCHISON. I yield up to 4 greatness of this country and the con- where some operations would be visible minutes to the Senator from New Mex- cept of freedom and liberty. and others would not be. ico, Mr. DOMENICI. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- In this global war, our troops are sup- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ator from Texas. porting freedom and democracy around ator from New Mexico. Mrs. HUTCHISON. I yield up to 1 the globe, and fighting terrorism in the Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, first, minute to the Senator from Mis- homelands of the terrorists and those I thank the distinguished Senator from sissippi, Mr. LOTT. who support them. Texas for yielding me a few moments. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The war on terrorism will be a long Obviously, this is a time when it is ator from Mississippi. war, and it will call for the endurance very easy to talk about our veterans. Mr. LOTT. I thank the Senator from and perseverance of every American. In But I thought I might just take about Texas for coordinating the opportunity the end, there probably won’t be a half of my time to tell the Senate a lit- today for us to honor our veterans. truce or surrender document signed tle story about my father. ‘‘Greater love hath no man than this, aboard a great battleship. What there My father came to the United States that he lay down his life for his will be is stability, peace, and rep- in 1908 as a 12-year-old immigrant from friends,’’ or in this case his country. resentative government in places This quotation embodies my senti- Italy. I don’t think many of you know where terrorism used to breed—where ment on this Veteran’s Day, as we that in the First World War, immi- dictators no longer use poison gas on honor those men and women who have grants, noncitizens, were drafted. My their own people, or have mass execu- laid down their lives for our great father was in little Albuquerque in tions. country, and those who stand ready in business, 27 years old, couldn’t write And on this Veterans Day we should her defense. remember all veterans, including those English, couldn’t speak English too I stand today to render my sharpest who continue to serve in this different well, and he got a draft notice. Sure salute to the selfless, brave profes- kind of war. enough, 3 months later he went off to sionals who epitomize the most noble And it is most appropriate to honor war, the First World War. of citizens. Another thing that is most inter- How can we express our gratitude and and salute those Mississippians who esting is that Armistice Day was this overflowing pride for our service men have lost their lives in Iraq and Af- day, November 11; but it was also my and women who have paid the ultimate ghanistan. They are: Kenneth Bradley, dad’s birthday. So he was a young price for their country, and those Army Staff Sergeant of Jackson, MS; American soldier, unable to speak very friends and family members who have Henry L. Brown, Army Corporal, of much English. He was sufficiently un- endured the loss of their loved ones? Natchez, MS; Larry K. Brown, Army certain of his language that when he How can we ever truly appreciate the Specialist, of Jackson, MS; James An- was up for promotion he didn’t want to comfort and safety that the soldier, derson Chance III, Army Specialist, of be promoted because he was afraid he airman, or seaman affords us through Kokomo, MS; Therrel S. Childers, Ma- couldn’t drill the soldiers; he would his or her daily dedication to duty? rine Corps 2nd Lieutenant, of Harrison, sound funny because he had a big ac- Perhaps there are lessons to be MS; John K. Klinesmith, Jr., Army cent. Nonetheless, he did move up and learned from the strong, silent, tall Specialist, of Carriere, MS; Jonathan whatever he was entitled to he got. soldier whose steely eyes well up with W. Lambert, Marine Corps Sergeant, of He remembered vividly November 11, tears at the sounding of our National Newsite, MS; Vincent Parker, Navy Armistice Day—and one man in par- Anthem. Engineman First Class, of Preston, MS; ticular. I think all our veterans have a Perhaps we could stand to learn some Joe N. Wilson, Army Staff Sergeant, of memory of some leader. His memory things from the weathered, silver Crystal Springs, MS. was of his captain, the captain of his haired, proud veteran who stands taller In the words of Boyd Lewis: Corps of Engineers which was building and breathes deeply as he hears an- The tranquility we enjoy was purchased pontoon bridges and the like. The rea- other painful round of Taps. dearly. May we never forget. son he remembered him was because Today we all stand in solemn remem- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- this man told his men: Armistice is in brance of those Americans who gave ator from Texas.

VerDate jul 14 2003 00:01 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.009 S11PT1 S14386 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, Dad, I love being in the Army and I love It was really an awful day. The rain how much time is remaining on our serving my country. was coming down, there was lightning side? Dad, this is where I belong, and this is and thunder, but hundreds of people The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- where I need to be with you and the other stood there to participate in that cere- iron soldiers. ator has 2 minutes 45 seconds. Dad, I push myself hard because I know the mony because we knew we were endur- Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I drill sergeants expect a lot out of me. ing much less in that rain and in that ask unanimous consent that I be al- Dad, Iraq is a mess and I am glad we are lightning than men and women from lowed to take up to 4 minutes. here to fix it. Tennessee who are serving in Afghani- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Sergeant Major Falaniko finished by stan or Iraq, or had served on the objection, it is so ordered. sharing from his heart talking about beaches of Normandy, or in the rice Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I the kind of kid his was; the kind that fields of Vietnam. rise today to pay tribute to the re- loved his sisters and sent them money Tennessee is the Volunteer State. markable men and women who have, on every payday just to let them know From the battle of King’s Mountain in over the years, placed their lives in he was thinking about them. the Revolutionary War, through the danger to preserve ours. On this Vet- He concluded by saying to the hun- Mexican War, the Civil War, and our erans Day, we remember those who dreds of soldiers there at their memo- World Wars, Tennesseans have volun- made the ultimate sacrifice. We ex- rial service, from the three-star gen- teered. We have honored those volun- press sincere gratitude for those who eral to the private: teers, and we have honored them as continue to serve and protect our free- What our country brings to Iraq is a veterans. dom, and we honor those families who chance for freedom and democracy . . . mak- As this Nation devotes a day to our also contribute every day in service of ing a difference every day. My son died for a veterans, we honor both Tennessee vet- our country. good cause . . . he answered the Nation’s call erans and Tennessee soldiers because On the heels of Operation Enduring like a typical American soldier. Jonathan so many Tennesseans—thousands—are Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation was accomplishing his mission, doing what serving in the battle against ter- Iraqi Freedom, this Veterans Day is he was supposed to be doing. He had a big rorism—men and women in active particularly significant. As we speak, heart and he was proud to be a soldier. duty, as well as men and women in the American and allied soldiers continue Then, First Sergeant Allen called: National Guard and those in the Re- to fight and die in defense of our lib- Private Falaniko. serves. erty. Many are face to face with danger And there was silence. The best thing we all can do on this at this very moment. Again, he called: Veterans Day is to show as much re- It is these remarkable men and Private Jonathan Falaniko. spect and honor to our veterans as our women, past and present, who embody veterans have always shown to our And finally: the democratic ideals that are the country. foundation of our great Nation. I would Private Jonathan Ioakimo Falaniko. Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, this year, like to share with you the story of one Silence prevailed. as we again remember our veterans and soldier who recently lost his life in Jonathan Falaniko was a hero who the sacrifices they have made for our Iraq. The following commentary was made the ultimate sacrifice. Both he country on this 11th day of the 11th written by LTC John Kem, a former and his father are examples of what month, the men and women serving in Army legislative fellow who worked on makes our Army and our country our Armed Forces deserve special rec- the Subcommittee on Military Con- great. ognition. This year’s remembrance is a struction during his year here. He The Army and our Nation mourn his unique time as we honor new veterans wrote: death. That young man—a soldier for coming home from the battlefields of There are very few events more poignant not even a full year—was buried at Ar- Afghanistan and Iraq who have made than a memorial service for a fallen Soldier. lington National Cemetery on Friday. the sacrifice and have answered the The service finishes with a final roll call by On this Veterans Day, I think we call. Our appreciation and gratitude ex- the company first sergeant of the Soldier’s should reflect on the wonderful young tends to all of them and their families squad members. Each Soldier in turn re- men and wonderful fathers who would for the sacrifices that they have made. sponds: ‘‘Here, first sergeant.’’ Then, three put service to country above all else, As of last week, 395 American service times in a row, the first sergeant calls out for they are the ones who are pro- members have been killed and 1,889 the dead Soldier’s name. Finally, after the third silent pause, waiting for a response tecting the freedom that we enjoy American service members have been that will never come, a lone bugler sounds today. wounded during Operation Iraqi Free- Taps. Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the dom. Our thoughts and prayers are This evening [he said] I went to a memo- floor. with them and their families. We pray rial service for Private Second Class Jona- Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, for the safety of those still in harm’s than Falaniko. Jonathan was killed on Oct. today is Veterans Day. It is a time to way and hope they return home soon. I 27 in Baghdad by a rocket-propelled grenade. pay tribute to those who have fought visited some of our servicemen and As you would expect, the memorial service for our freedom and made us the Na- was sad, but it was also a profound lesson on women at Walter Reed Army Medical faith, selfless service and a family’s love. tion we are today. Center here in Washington, DC Jonathan’s unit, the 70th Engineer Bat- On November 11, 1919, Veterans Day recuperating from wounds they re- talion, is part of the Army’s 1st Armored Di- began as Armistice Day. It marked the ceived in Iraq. Some of them had lost vision Engineer Brigade. The senior enlisted first anniversary of the cease-fire limbs, and face significant physical soldier in the brigade happened to be Jona- agreement among the Allied powers challenges in building a new life. As I than’s father, Command Sergeant Major and Germany to end World War I. It expressed my appreciation to them for Ioakimo Falaniko. was also to honor the men and women their sacrifices, I was humbled and in- After the company commander and a few of Jonathan’s friends spoke at the memorial who sacrificed during that conflict. spired by their high spirits, their deter- service, the command sergeant major In 1926, a congressional resolution of- mination and their abiding faith in our stepped forward and spoke. He spoke about ficially named Armistice Day in the country. Jonathan as both a soldier and a son. United States. It became a national November 11th—the day World War I Sergeant Major Falaniko read from a few holiday 12 years later. In 1954, Congress ended in 1917—has been a distinguished of Jonathan’s recent letters. passed a law to change the name from day of recognition for America’s vet- For a point of reference, Jonathan Armistice Day to Veterans Day to erans since 1954 when President Dwight was a new soldier who had been in the honor veterans of all U.S. wars. Eisenhower signed into law the day Army less than 6 months. He attended As I think about our veterans and all that would honor the men and women basic training beginning in May 2003 they have sacrificed, I am reminded of who have served in our Nation’s Armed and deployed to Iraq in August of this a day 6 months ago when I visited Mad- Forces. Since the founding of our coun- year. The following quotes are from isonville, TN, to see and participate in try, almost 50 million men and women some of his letters in the last few the raising of the largest American flag have served in the United States mili- months of his life: in our State—1,800 square feet. tary, and nearly half of them are still

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.015 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14387 alive. So today, there are appropriate become America’s first black military man, recognizing the need for an inte- ceremonies at Arlington National Cem- airmen, at a time when rampant rac- grated air force, enacted an executive etery, throughout Michigan and the ism led many people to falsely assume order demanding equality of treatment rest of the country to honor our vet- that black men lacked intelligence, and opportunity in all of the armed erans and what their service has meant skill, and patriotism. And boy, were forces. to our country. they proved wrong. The Tuskegee airmen were instru- I would also like to recognize the Af- The military feats of this group can mental in the passing of this executive rican-American men and women who in be described as nothing less than phe- order, which paved the way for broader years past served our Nation’s Armed nomenal. victories later on, including the end of Forces in primarily segregated units. In Order to enter the training pro- racial segregation in all military While segregation in our Armed Forces gram, the young men were held to the forces, and eventually in the United is a shameful chapter in our Nation’s same demanding physical and mental States as a whole. past, these veterans should be uniquely standards as all other military pilots These soldiers are a vibrant part of recognized for their honorable service and soldiers of supporting fields. And America’s history and a part of Michi- in the face of the burden of segrega- between 1942 and 1946, 992 black Amer- gan’s. Not only did many of the sol- tion. African-American soldiers over- ican pilots graduated from the rigorous diers train at Selfridge Air Base, but came a patten of prejudice that ques- program offered at Tuskegee Army Air the cadet classes drew heavily from the tioned their ability and prevented Field, not to mention the black naviga- Detroit citizenry. One such citizen them from training and working with tors, bombardiers, and gunnery crews made Michigan understand the value of their white counterparts. Segregated that were trained at selected military the Tuskegee program to its own his- African-American units have played an bases elsewhere due to a lack of facili- tory. important and powerful role in Amer- ties at Tuskegee. Lieutenant Coleman Young, later to ica’s military, from the Civil War’s Four-hundred and fifty of the become a long-time mayor of Detroit, 54th Regiment of the Massachusetts Tuskegee trained pilots headed to the was a product of the Tuskegee experi- Volunteer Infantry, to the Indian War’s Selfridge Air Base in Michigan for ence. Assigned to the 477th bombardier, Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th and 10th combat preparation, before bravely he and his colleagues were never sent Cavalry to World War II’s Tuskegee heading overseas as proud members of into combat due to racism from senior Airmen. Four hundred thousand Afri- either the 99th Fighter Squadron or the officers. Determined to preserve the can-American troops served the United 332nd Fighter Group, later to be con- memory of the Tuskegee airmen, with States in World War I and a million Af- joined. As the only four-squadron fight- the help of other Detroit members, he rican Americans served in World War er group performing bomber escort fostered what has become the National II’s segregated services. We should ac- missions in the 15th Air Force, the Tuskegee Airmen Historical Museum, knowledge their commitment which 332nd Fighter Group had extraordinary housed at historic Fort Wayne. This went beyond normal service and the and unprecedented success. They flew small but dignified museum, occupying call to duty. I am pleased that this all of their bomber escort missions— an old officer’s quarters, perpetuates past weekend, a special celebration of over 200—without the loss of a single the great story the Tuskegee have to our African-American veterans took bomber to enemy aircraft. tell. place in my home State of Michigan at The bomber escort missions of the A story I believe we should all listen the Color of Liberty Celebration at the famed 332nd ‘‘Red Tail’’ fighters were to. All in all, these soldiers gave over Wayne County Armory. so daunting to the enemy that they 150 lives in the name of their country I would also like to take a moment served as an immensely strong deter- and in the name of freedom. I now call to stress the importance of the Federal rent to challenges. The bomber crews on that country, the United States, to Government meeting its obligations to that the group escorted offered abun- provide them the recognition they de- all veterans to provide appropriate and dant expressions of appreciation since serve on this Veterans Day. adequate health care. There is a com- they faced far fewer challenges than According to existing records, 155 mitment by the appropriate commit- other crews in the 15th Air Force. Tuskegee soldiers originated from tees to add an additional $1.3 billion for Sadly, while these men were defend- Michigan, I wish to recognize each one veterans health care before Congress ing liberty for the people half a world of them: adjourns this year. Right now, 60,000 away, they were also fighting for their TUSKEGEE AIRMEN veterans are waiting 6 months or own liberation right here in the United Kermit Bailer; Clarence Banton; James longer for an appointment at VA hos- States. Despite their valiant deeds Barksdale of Detroit; Hugh Barrington of pitals. I am hopeful that Congress will abroad, racism and bigotry impeded Farmington Hills; Naomi Bell; Thomas fulfill our commitments to our vet- their success at home. Due to strict Billingslea; Lee Blackmon; Charles Blakely erans so that they have a strong VA segregationist policies, their assign- of Detroit, Robert Bowers of Detroit; James health care system that is well-funded ments were restricted to only two Brown of Ypsilanti; Willor Brown of Ypsi- lanti; Ernest Browne of Detroit; Archibald and suitably staffed. fighter groups, and one fighter wing. Their morale suffered more damage Browning; Otis Bryant; Joseph Bryant, Jr. of The terrorist attacks of September Dowagiac; Charles Byous; Ernest Cabule of 11th and the courageous actions of our due to the lack of opportunities for ad- Detroit; Waldo Cain; Clinton Canady of Lan- armed forces in Afghanistan and Iraq vancement than their air fleet did by sing; Carl Carey of Detroit; Gilbert Cargil; remind us that friends of tyranny and enemy fire. Nathaniel Carr of Detroit; Donald Carter of enemies of freedom still exist. Whether Despite this setback, these soldiers Detroit; Clifton Casey; David Cason, Jr; they are soldiers, sailors, airmen and still performed splendidly. In 1949, Peter Cassey of Detroit; Robert Chandler of marines who fought in the World Wars, Tuskegee pilots took first place in the Allegan; Pembleton Cochran of Detroit; Al- Korea, Vietnam or the Gulf wars, we Air Force National Fighter Gunnery fred Cole of Southfield; James Coleman of Meet, surpassing the performances of Detroit; William Coleman of Detroit; Eugene thank them for their service, their Coleman; Matthew Corbin of Detroit; Charles commitment and their sacrifice in the all the white units. Craig of Detroit; Herbert Crushshon; John cause of America’s freedom. The bigotry against these men only Cunningham of Romulus; and John Curtis of Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, on served to hurt America. During the Detroit. this Veterans Day, I rise to recognize a war, many white units badly needed Donald Davis of Detroit; Cornelius Davis of group of truly deserving American vet- additional qualified soldiers, but could Detroit; Eugene Derricotte of Detroit; erans—the Tuskegee Airmen of World not draw upon the superb skills of the Taremund Dickerson of Detroit; Walter War II. Tuskegee airmen due to the military’s Downs of Southfield; John Egan; Leavie This heroic group of African Amer- segregationist policies. Farro, Jr.; Howard Ferguson; Thomas Flake But this cloud had its silver lining. of Detroit; Harry Ford, Jr. of Detroit; Luther ican flyers fought in two types of bat- Friday; Alfonso Fuller of Detroit; William tles—the battle of World War II and the The willpower and skill that brought Fuller of West Bloomfield; Frank Gardner; battle against racism at home. success for the Tuskegee airmen Robert Garrison of Muskegon; Thomas Gay The Tuskegee airmen were dedicated, abroad also helped in the war against of Detroit; Charles Goldsby of Detroit; Ollie determined young men who enlisted to racism at home. President Harry Tru- Goodall, Jr. of Detroit; Quintus Green, Sr.;

VerDate jul 14 2003 03:40 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.017 S11PT1 S14388 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 Mitchell Greene; James Greer of Detroit; We have recently granted the Admin- for America’s interest, Congress must Alphonso Harper of Detroit; Bernard Harris istration an additional $87 billion dol- ensure that their medical needs are of Detroit; Denzal Harvey; James Hayes of lars in supplemental funding for Iraq covered. Detroit; Ernest Haywood of Detroit; Minus As I reflect on the origin of Veterans Heath; Milton Henry of Bloomfield Hills; and Afghanistan. Mary Hill; Charles Hill, Jr. of Detroit; While I would have preferred that Day, it brings me great hope that our Lorenzo Holloway of Detroit; Lynn Hooe of some of those funds be in the form of a service members will be home and Farmington Hills; Heber Houston of Detroit; loan to Iraq, and that there be more peace will reign again. Ted Hunt; and Hansen Hunter, Jr. safeguards to ensure the funds are well- On June 4, 1934, Congress enacted a Leonard Isabelle Sr., Leonard Jackson; used, I believe that it was necessary to concurrent resolution, recognizing No- Lawrence Jefferson of Grand Rapids; Alex- provide these funds. vember 11, 1918. The resolution states: ander Jefferson of Detroit; Silas Jenkins of It is clear to me that we must stay ‘‘Whereas the 11 of November 1918, Lansing; Richard Jennings of Detroit; Louie Johnson of Farmington; Ralph Jones; Wil- the course, and we must rebuild the in- marked the cessation of the most de- liam Keene of Detroit; Laurel Keith of frastructure, prevent civil war, and see structive, sanguinary, and far reaching Cassopolis; Hezekiah Lacy of River Rouge; to it that Iraq does not become a base war in human annals and the resump- Richard Macon of Detroit; Albert Mallory; for terror and instability throughout tion by the people of the United States Thomas Malone; Ralph Mason of Detroit; J. the region. of peaceful relation with other nations, Caulton Mays of Detroit; William McClenic; We must see to it that a stable gov- which we hope may never again be sev- Arthur Middlebrooks; Oliver Miller of Battle ernmental structure and viable econ- ered, and Whereas it is fitting that the Creek; Vincent Mitchell of Mt. Clemens; Wil- bur Moffett of Detroit; Dempsey Morgan of omy apart from Saddam’s tyrannical recurring anniversary of this date Detroit; Russell Nalle, Jr. of Detroit; Robert dictatorship can be put in place. should be commemorated with thanks- O’Neil of Detroit; Frederick Parker; Robert And most importantly, we must see giving and prayer and exercises de- Pitts of Detroit; Wardell Polk of Detroit; to it that our troops are given all the signed to perpetuate peace through Walter Poole; Calvin Porter of Detroit; Cal- tools necessary to accomplish these ob- good will and mutual understanding vin Porter; Leonard Proctor; Della Rainey; jectives. between nations; . . . ’’ Sandy Reid of Southfield; Edward Rembert; Approving the additional funding was On May 13, 1938, the 11 of November Harry Riggs of Bloomfield Hills; Walter Rob- the only way to truly support our mili- was approved as a legal holiday dedi- inson of Detroit; Major Ross of Oak Park; Washington Ross of Detroit; John Roundtree tary service members and aid their ul- cated to world peace, known as Armi- of Westland; Calude Rowe of Detroit; Wil- timate success. stice Day. Finally, on June 1, 1954, Con- liam Ruben; William Rucker; Jesse Rutledge As we seek to ensure that the current gress renamed Armistice Day to Vet- of Detroit; and Issac Rutledge. war efforts are well funded, we also erans Day, thereby commending all Calvin Sharp; Albert Simeon, Jr. of De- need to realize that very soon, the veterans. troit; Paul Simmons, Jr. of Detroit; Leon young men and women of our armed Veterans Day is often associated Smith; Chauncey Spencer; William Steven- forces will be returning home. with war, but its true significance lies son; Chester Stewart of Detroit; Harry Stew- art of Bloomfield Hills; Roosevelt Stiger of Some will require extraordinary care in peace and humanity. Jackson; Howard Storey; Willie Sykes of De- for a long period of time. It is incum- Since September 11 this country has troit; Willis Tabor; Kenneth Taitt of Detroit; bent upon us to ensure that they have undergone tremendous struggle and un- William Taylor, Jr. of Inkster; Lucius Theus adequate facilities to aid them in their certainty. of Bloomfield Hills; Donald Thomas of De- recovery and recuperation. We have shown that our resiliency is troit; Austin Thomas; Wm. Horton Thomp- There must not be any doubt by any greater than our fears and our convic- son of Detroit; Jordan Tiller; Paul Tucker of of our injured veterans that they did tions of freedom and right can not be Detroit; Edward Tunstall of Detroit; Allen the right thing in sacrificing health to compromised. Turner of Ann Arbor; Cleophus Valentine of This country is great because its citi- Detroit; Charles Walker of Jackson; Robert defend our nation’s interest. Walker; Roderick Warren of Detroit; Theo- The best way to prove to them that zens are great. This country was born dore Washington of Detroit; Richard they have our full support is to ensure from the sacrifice of its citizens and Weatherford of Aibion; Jimmie Wheeler of that they receive good health care and the vision they saw. Detroit; William Wheeler of Detroit; Cohen adequate benefits once they return Today we honor the citizens who White of Detroit; Harold White of Detroit; home. served and continue to serve our great Paul White; Peter Whittaker of Detroit; It is our responsibility to make sure country. They are the protectors of our Leonard Wiggins of Detroit; David Williams that our veterans are not waiting six democracy and our way of life; they are of Bloomfield Hills; Willie Williamson of De- months or longer for appointments at our veterans. troit; Robert Wolfe; William Womack; and Coleman Young. VA hospitals, nor should they have to Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, in the Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, wait for 15 months for disability claims past few days, the tragic headlines today, on Veterans Day, we commemo- to be finalized, as is now often the case. from Iraq have reminded us of the self- rate and pay special honor to all the And prescriptions costs must be af- less sacrifices our soldiers, sailors, ma- veterans who have made such great fordable. rines and airmen make every day to sacrifices in the name of country and We need to make room available in keep this country strong and safe. The democracy. VA hospitals to ensure that all of our conflict in Iraq brings home again the This day is particularly poignant as veterans whether active duty or re- debt we owe to America’s veterans for our Nation is at war. There are more serves are adequately served. their service and their sacrifices. than 150,000 military service members In order to accomplish this task we In North Dakota, we are extremely in harm’s way, fighting overseas in must be cautious as we close hospitals proud to have the highest per capita Iraq and Afghanistan. under the Capital Assets Realignment participation in the Guard of any State They fight for freedom of the Iraqi for Enhanced Services—CARES—pro- and to be among the leaders in per cap- people, who have faced decades of ex- gram to ensure that we don’t leave our ita participation in the Reserves. More treme oppression and brutality under veterans stranded without accessible than 1,000 North Dakota National Saddam Hussein, and against the services. Guardsmen and reservists in Iraq, Ku- Taliban forces, who continue to pose a As our veterans return home, some wait and Afghanistan are serving with challenge in Afghanistan. with great and debilitating injuries, we distinction. Behind these statistics, Sadly, nearly 500 have paid the ulti- must also ensure that their compensa- though, are individual soldiers who mate sacrifice and many more have tion is just, full, and reflective of the have left behind families. With the sustained life altering injuries. American spirit. wonders of modern technology, I can And as we prepare to send thousands Finally, we need to remember the hear directly from soldiers who are on more in harm’s way, I believe that it’s families of the great men and women the frontlines in Iraq. I hear of their our obligation to ensure that our mili- who are separated from their loved accomplishments, when they’ve helped tary service members and veterans re- ones. make life just a little better for an ceive full support from Congress, and We must make sure that their con- Iraqi family or even a whole commu- that our efforts are tailored to benefit cerns are the Nation’s concerns. While nity. I hear of their pride in doing a job those who proudly serve this Nation. their loved ones are overseas fighting well for their country. But I also hear

VerDate jul 14 2003 03:55 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.010 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14389 of their frustration with searing heat, torical accounts of one of the most sig- Let me close by saying thank you. swirling dust, and irregular access to nificant engagements involving North Thank you to our veterans. Thank you showers and the other comforts we Dakotans in 1942, when members of the to our military personnel now on ac- take for granted. I hear of their worries 164th Infantry Regiment of the ND tive duty around the world. Your serv- about family at home, how their loved Army National Guard were the first ice and your sacrifice make me, and ones are coping with their absence and Army unit to engage in combat action you make America, very, very proud. their concern that the news of deaths in the Pacific Theater on Guadalcanal. Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, and injuries among their fellow sol- I was honored to have introduced a res- today marks the 50th anniversary of diers are adding to the stress on their olution that passed the Senate in 1992 Veterans Day. This historic occasion is families. I hear their longing to get paying tribute to the heroic actions of an important opportunity for all Amer- back to home and family. In short, I the 164th Infantry unit. icans to express our gratitude to our hear of the sacrifices they are making Today, as I noted earlier, military Nation’s veterans for the sacrifices on our behalf. personnel from our State continue to they have made serving our country And every day I hear from the family protect our homeland and to serve in and defending our freedom. members of our activated servicemen hostile environments around the world. My first sense of the sacrifice made and servicewomen. I hear how proud Active duty personnel from the Minot by our veterans came from my family. they are that their beloved ones are and Grand Forks AFB, Air National My father volunteered to serve in the Guard from Fargo, and the more than serving the country they love. But I Air Force during World War II, and 1,000 Army National Guardsmen and re- also hear of the added burden that flew missions over Europe. I will never servists continue to play a vital role in those left behind must bear. I hear the forget his stories of the war, of the men homeland security and in the fight frustration of not knowing when a with whom he served, and of the dan- loved one will come home and of learn- against terrorism. We owe these active duty personnel and their families a gers they faced together. Yet he knew ing that the deployment has been ex- full well the risks he would face when tended. I hear of the hit on the family deep debt of gratitude for responding to the extraordinary challenges posed by he joined up. finances for Guardsmen or reservists In fact, my father enlisted after who have left higher paying jobs to international terrorism. As we observe Veterans Day, let us learning that his brother was missing serve their country—and of the spouses remember that the respect and appre- in action. Like the hundreds of thou- who are left to keep the family busi- ciation that we show our veterans and sands who fell at places like Nor- ness running on their own. I hear of the active duty personnel on this day is an mandy, Guadalcanal, Anzio, and Attu, added work as one parent takes on the act that we should demonstrate every and places so desolate they remain work normally done by two—the day of the year. It is especially impor- unnamed, my uncle never came home. caregiving, the helping with home- tant that we honor veterans and their He and his brothers in arms gave their work, the coaching, the meal prepara- families by making certain that our ac- lives to defend freedom at home and tion—all the little chores that add up tive duty personnel and veterans re- around the world. and are starting to become a source of ceive the benefits that we have prom- In perhaps the most eloquent testa- stress for some families. I hear the ised and that they are entitled to re- ment to the sacrifice of our Nation’s added anxiety of knowing that a loved ceive. We can do no less for the sac- veterans, President Abraham Lincoln one is serving in a dangerous role far rifices that they have made. said: from home. Each time the phone rings, That is why I am working hard in the But in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate— they hope that it will be a rare oppor- remaining days of the 1st Session of we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow— tunity to hear that everything is going the 108th Congress to make certain this ground. The brave men, living and dead, well and to say ‘‘I love you,’’ but they that our veterans receive significant who struggled here, have consecrated it, far fear that it could be news of a casualty. increases in funding for VA health above our poor power to add or detract. The In short, I hear of the sacrifices that care, funding that should come as close world will little note, nor long remember they are making on our behalf. what we say here, but it can never forget as possible to the recommendations of what they did here. And I hear of the tremendous impact our national veterans service organiza- on small communities throughout tions in the annual Independent Budg- President Lincoln’s stirring words North Dakota. The current call-up has et. I am hopeful that Congress will in- are as true today as they were at Get- meant the loss of valued employees in crease the VA health care budget by tysburg 140 years ago this month. The small businesses on main streets across $1.3 billion, bringing the level close to ongoing deployments in the Middle the state. It has meant the loss of $27.2 billion. I strongly support that in- East are a reminder of these sacrifices. teachers, volunteer firefighters, police- crease. Additionally, I am very con- Earlier this year, I had the opportunity men, and medical personnel. And it has cerned by the uncertainty of annual to visit American troops stationed in meant the absence of church leaders, appropriations for VA health care Afghanistan and Iraq. I was impressed PTA leaders, Little League coaches. In every year, and believe that we need to by their grit and their resolve to carry short, it has meant sacrifices great and make VA health care funding manda- out a dangerous mission under ex- small. tory to guarantee that veterans get the tremely difficult circumstances. So this Veterans Day, we are re- health care they need and deserve. I am I was also proud to join the families minded of the tremendous sacrifices of pleased to be a cosponsor of legislation, and neighbors who welcomed home the our veterans and their families. Today S. 50, that would guarantee full funding thousands of Washington sailors, avi- is a Federal holiday. But it is more for VA health care. ators, and Marines who served in the than that. It is an opportunity to stop I also believe that it is time to end U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln carrier battle and thank veterans for their service the penalty against our disabled vet- group. It was uplifting to see such a and their sacrifice. It is an opportunity erans, and am pleased that we are mak- tremendous outpouring of support for to tell them how proud they make you. ing progress on providing full concur- our troops. And it is an opportunity to remember rent receipt of veterans disability com- Sadly, not all of them will make it those who made the ultimate sacrifice pensation and military retirement pay home. To the families and loved ones of and the debt of gratitude and honor for more veterans. While final action those men and women who have given this country owes to their heroism. has not been completed on the concur- their lives, I offer my heartfelt sym- I deeply regret that the business of rent receipt, I am hopeful that an pathy. You have the everlasting grati- the Senate is keeping me here in Wash- agreement to expand significantly the tude of the State of Washington and ington so that I am not able to deliver number of veterans eligible for concur- the Nation. that message personally to the tens of rent receipt and military retirement I am profoundly grateful for the serv- thousands of North Dakota veterans pay, without an offset, will be enacted ice of America’s military personnel and who served in past conflicts and wars. by Congress in the very near future. We for the sacrifices they have made in More than 50,000 veterans currently must, however, continue our efforts to protecting our country and our free- live in my State. Their service is rich provide full concurrent receipt for all doms. Although we commemorate their in history. I remember reviewing his- veterans entitled to this benefit. service on this special day each year, it

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.014 S11PT1 S14390 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 is important to remember that the men Though seriously wounded three what anyone else would have done in the sit- and women in uniform make sacrifices times in 26 days, corpsman George uation.’’ to safeguard America every day. Whalen refused evacuation and repeat- . . . I thought to myself, ‘‘If uncommon Their service, both in peacetime and valor was so common on Iwo Jima, why can’t edly defined heavy mortar and rifle fire I find the Rambos of my imagination?’’ All I in war, protects us all. Our responsi- from the enemy to find and treat his could find were humble guys who insisted bility to them is to ensure that they wounded comrades. Disregarding his they hadn’t done much . . . But I realized and their families are provided the rec- own safety, he continued to cross open then that what my dad’s life and words, and ognition that they have earned and so terrain under fire to aid his friends, the words and lives of these other heroes, greatly deserve. It is also our charge, until he was so badly wounded, he were trying to tell me, was that it was all as Lincoln described it, to renew our about common virtue. could no longer walk. Even then, he My dad and his comrades were men of com- dedication to the ‘‘great task remain- carried on, crawling across the ground mon virtue before Iwo Jima, on Iwo Jima, ing before us’’—to renew our dedication through the raging battle to admin- and after Iwo Jima. Their actions and lives to freedom and democracy. I am con- ister aid to yet another fallen comrade. were consistent . . . I realized that the key fident that as we a nation will continue For his unselfish and steadfast cour- to my dad’s life was the attitude of common to live up to this challenge. I hope that age, and for ‘‘conspicuous gallantry virtue he practiced throughout his days. . . . we can meet our obligations as citizens and intrepidity at the risk of his life My dad, running through bullets on Iwo with the same sense of duty and honor above and beyond the call of duty.’’ Jima, doing his duty in the Pacific. My dad with which America’s veterans served. having the patience to teach me, a young George Wahlen was awarded the Medal son, how to tie his shoes. My dad, just lend- Mr. BENNETT. Mr. President, on of Honor, and is Utah’s only living re- ing a hand in his community. . . . And I am Veterans Day, it is fitting to pause, re- cipient of that rare recognition. confident that if my dad were here to read member and recognize the contribu- We are all familiar with the language these words about common virtue being the tions of those who have defended Amer- of military honors, but, in these chal- root of heroism, he would shake his head in ica throughout our history. Today, I lenging times, where American soldiers agreement and say: ‘‘It’s as simple as that.’’ would also like to recognize a man who and sailors, airmen and marines, once Mr. Wahlen has demonstrated com- risked his life to save his fellow ma- again are serving in foreign lands and mon virtue throughout his life and con- rines in the horrific World War II bat- showing the same gallant spirit of sac- tinues to do so. He did not end his serv- tle for Iwo Jima. rifice and courage in the face of battle, ice on Iwo Jima. Following World War Historian David Kennedy, in his book we need to hear it again. I would like II, true to the code of what Tom ‘‘Freedom from Fear,’’ describes the to quote from Mr. Wahlen’s citation: Brokaw called ‘‘the greatest genera- battle of Iwo Jima: Painfully wounded . . . he remained on tion,’’ he went on to serve his country The twenty-one-thousand-man Japanese the battlefield, advancing well forward of the in two more wars and to dedicate garrison had honeycombed Iwo’s basaltic front lines to aid a wounded marine and car- countless volunteer hours in following ridges and Suribachi’s ashen flanks with re- rying him back to safety despite a terrific years to the service of his fellow vet- inforced concrete-and-steel bunkers and concentration of fire. Tireless in his min- erans. stuffed them with artillery, antiaircraft istrations, he consistently disregarded all guns, mortars, and machine guns. They were It is to honor this fine and humble danger to attend his fighting comrades as man, who would be the last to claim so well and deeply entrenched that seventy- they fell under the devastating rain of shrap- two days of aerial bombing and three days of nel and bullets. . . . When an adjacent pla- such an honor for himself, that I am naval shelling barely scratched them. At toon suffered heavy casualties, he defied the proposing to change the name of the first light on February 19 two divisions of continuous pounding of heavy mortars and Department of Veterans Affairs’ Med- marines, each man carrying up to a hundred deadly fire of enemy rifles to care for the ical Center in Salt Lake City, UT to pounds of gear, stepped from their amphtracs wounded, working rapidly in an area swept the ‘‘George E. Wahlen Department of onto Iwo’s beaches and sank to their boot- by constant fire and treating 14 casualties Veterans Affairs Medical Center.’’ Sen- tops in the powdery mixture of sand and vol- before returning to his own platoon. Wound- ator HATCH and I introduced this legis- canic ash. Vehicles, including tanks and ed again . . . he gallantly refused evacu- half-tracks, soon bogged down in the quick- lation, S. 1815, last week. ation, moving out with his company the fol- This is a proper and fitting thing to sand-like topping of pumice and cinder that lowing day in a furious assault across 600 blanketed the island. From the Japanese yards of open terrain and repeatedly ren- do, not only because of Mr. Wahlen’s bunkers and pillboxes a hellish rain of shells dering medical aid while exposed to the accomplishments and service, but also and bullets pelted the beaches, where the blasting fury of powerful Japanese guns. because he is beloved by his fellow vet- marines seemed to be moving in slow motion Stouthearted and indomitable, he persevered erans. This is made clear by the unani- through the sucking sand . . . in his determined efforts as his unit waged mous support I received in support of The battle ground on . . . with unmatched fierce battle and, unable to walk after sus- this change from all of the State com- barbarity. Japanese soldiers stubbornly re- taining a third agonizing wound, resolutely fused to surrender. When the fighting ended manders and directors of Utah’s vet- crawled 50 yards to administer first aid to erans’ organizations and State and at last in late March, only a few hundred still another fallen fighter. By his dauntless Japanese, mostly wounded, had allowed fortitude and valor, Wahlen served as a con- Federal agencies: the American Le- themselves to be taken prisoner. stant inspiration and contributed vitally to gion, the Disabled American Veterans, From February 19 to March 25, 1945, the high morale of his company during crit- the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the VA 6,140 Marine and Navy soldiers were ical phases of this strategically important Regional Office, the Utah Division of killed on Iwo Jima and 17,372 were engagement. His heroic spirit of self-sac- Veterans Affairs, and the VA Medical wounded. Nearly two of three soldiers rifice in the face of overwhelming enemy fire Center itself. who fought on Iwo Jima were killed or upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. When carrying the 2002 Olympic Naval Service. wounded. Twenty-two Marines and four Torch George Wahlen said, ‘‘It’s an corpsmen received medals of honor. James Bradley, in an article in the honor, but I feel like I’m representing During those terrible days of Feb- Wall Street Journal on November 10, all the veterans in the State of Utah.’’ ruary and March of 1945, George E. 2002, considered the phrase ‘‘Uncom- He has represented veterans so often Wahlen was a medical corpsman. mon Valor was a Common Virtue’’ in over the last 30 years. In this cir- James Bradley, in the book, Flags of his search to learn the story of his dad, cumstance, we honor George Wahlen, our Fathers said this: and others at Iwo Jima. Mr. Bradley as a veteran, a Medal of Honor recipi- . . . In the European theater, my dad (a wrote: ent, a man of both valor and virtue, navy corpsman) would have worn a red cross Corpsman George Wahlen was injured in and as a representative of all of the on his helmet and expected the Germans to the eye and shoulder, but patched himself up veterans who have served their coun- spare him as a noncombatant. And he would secretly so he would not be evacuated. When try. have been unarmed, according to the Geneva an exploding shell shattered his ankle, leav- Many veterans who returned as he- Convention. but the Pacific theater was dif- ing his foot dangling and all but discon- roes are often uncomfortable with the ferent. . . . The Japanese on Iwo Jima had nected from the leg, he shot himself with designation of heroes. James Bradley, been trained to look for corpsmen by identi- morphine, taped up his ankle, and crawled fying their telltale medical pouch—and back to the fight with one good eye, one in Flags of our Fathers, recounted a shoot them on the spot. Without a corpsman good arm, and one good leg. Corpsman story where his third grade teacher re- to save the wounded, the Japanese knew, Wahlen had to be dragged off the field of bat- ferred to James’s father as a hero and their kill ratio would be much higher . . . tle. ‘‘Why?’’ I asked. He answered, ‘‘I just did wanted him to come and speak to his

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.045 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14391 class. He recounts the exchange with United States who have served in de- count, 37 percent of these heroes are his father: fense of our great Nation. In 1918, on over 65 years old and many of them ‘‘Jim, your teacher said something about the 11th hour of the 11th day in the need medical care. Caring for these heroes . . .’’ 11th month, the world rejoiced and brave men and women is an obligation I shifted expectantly in my chair, waiting celebrated. After four years of bitter that we must take seriously. In my to hear some stories of valor. Instead he war, an armistice was signed. The ‘‘war first year as a Congressman, in 1995, looked me directly in my nine-year-old eyes, signaling that he’d like to embed an idea in to end all wars’’ was over. How spending on veterans healthcare was my brain for the rest of my life. He said ‘‘I unprophetic were these sincere but $16 billion. Just 9 years later, President want you to always remember something. hopeful words. Bush’s fiscal year budget request was The heroes of Iwo Jima are the guys who The turn of events has since made us $27 billion, an increase of $11 billion. didn’t come back.’’ realize more than ever that ‘‘Eternal We can always do better, and we will, Today, we remember those who came vigilance is the price of liberty,’’ and but I think that this dramatic rise in back and those who didn’t—those who Armistice Day has turned into Vet- funding is remarkable. didn’t come back from Iwo Jima, from erans Day to honor all our brave men We have taken other significant steps Guadalcanal, from Normandy, from and women who served since that hope- to help our Nation’s veterans, includ- Vietnam, from Korea, from Afghani- filled day in many countries to defend ing concurrent receipt legislation in stan, from Iraq. liberty and freedom. the fiscal year 2004 Defense Authoriza- While words fail to make an adequate America today, and this imperfect tion Act, which we will consider today tribute to those who lost their lives world, is a better place because of the on the floor of the Senate. This provi- and paid a price in sacrifice for what sacrifices made by our veterans and sion helps disabled veterans wounded we enjoy today, I will borrow from their families, many of whom paid the in combat to receive both their dis- what has already been written. In 1940, ultimate price, for ‘‘The only thing ability compensation as well as the Winston Churchill spoke to the House necessary for the triumph of evil is for pension which they earned in service to of Commons in relation to the Battle of good men to do nothing.’’ When duty our Nation. In addition, the concurrent Britain. He said, ‘‘Never in the field of called, our veterans responded magnifi- receipt provision will extend full dis- human conflict was so much owed by cently. ability and Veterans Affairs retirement so many to so few.’’ As we engage in Operation Iraqi pay for all disabled veterans rated 50 There are heroes that never came Freedom, Operation Enduring Free- percent and higher. When enacted, this back. There are heroes that did. Let us dom, Operation Noble Eagle, and provision does more to honor our Na- not forget. countless other missions around the tion’s disabled veterans than Congress Mr. BREAUX. Mr. President, I rise world, it is important that we support has done in years. today to honor the veterans of the U.S. our men and women in the military by On this day, my thoughts and prayers Armed Services and to thank those providing them with the training, are with the families of the fallen sol- who continue to serve bravely and pro- equipment, and resources necessary for diers who were deployed from my home tect the United States around the them to accomplish their mission so State and throughout the Nation, who world. that they can return to their families served with honor and bravery in the My home State of Louisiana has in a timely manner. We must also Middle East and Afghanistan. My made a significant contribution to the honor their families who also sacrifice thought and prayers are also with the war on terrorism. Since September 11, precious time with them so that they family of GEN Ray Davis, who passed 2001, more than 15,000 Louisiana men can defend our freedom. away earlier this year and whose leg- and women have fought to protect At the same time, we must never for- acy of service, honor, and heroism will Americans from those that threaten get the contributions and sacrifices be remembered for years to come. our safety. Every military installation made by those veterans who served in Mr. SARBANES. Mr. President, I join in Louisiana has contributed to this ef- past conflicts, and their families. We with my colleagues on this Veterans fort. There are 4,000 men and women must work to ensure that our veterans Day in paying tribute to those men and from Fort Polk currently serving in are provided with appropriate services women who have so ably served in our Iraq, more than 6,000 members from and benefits, such as adequate health Nation’s Armed Forces and honoring Barksdale Air Force Base deployed care, in a timely fashion. We currently the tremendous sacrifices they have since September 11, and thousands of face a $1.8 billion shortfall in funding made for this great country. reservists and Guardsmen continue to needed to provide healthcare for our I firmly believe that those citizens be activated and deployed throughout veterans. I remain committed to ensur- who have been called upon to defend our country and the world. In the com- ing that our veterans are provided with our Nation, to risk and in many cases ing months, over one hundred more the services and benefits that they sacrifice their lives, deserve our ut- Marine Reservists from Belle Chasse have earned. most respect and gratitude, for these Joint Reserve Base in Louisiana will be I am honored to pay tribute to these noble men and women are responsible called into action in Iraq. I would like fine individuals on behalf of a grateful for the peace and freedom which we, as to take this opportunity to express my Nation. Americans, cherish. deep gratitude for their sacrifice. Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, As we use this time to reflect upon I also want to let the roughly 379,000 from the Meuse-Argonne campaign of the heroic deeds of the past, we should veterans living in Louisiana and those World War I to the action in Operation also recognize the significance of these around the country know we do not Iraqi Freedom, American soldiers, sail- deeds for the present and the future. forget your service to our country. We ors, airmen, and marines have fought Due to the unselfish efforts of those of will be eternally grateful for your serv- on front lines around the globe to de- who have served, those who serve now, ice to the United States in our past and fend our freedom at home. Whether and the efforts of all of those who are present wars against communism, fas- fighting on the battlefield or manning no longer here with us, the world con- cism, and terrorism. Our Nation stays the ramparts against the threat of tinues to be a safer place and the prin- strong because of your efforts, and the Communist aggression, it is courage, ciples of democracy survive. world is a better place for the things commitment and endurance of the I have often said we ought not be you have done. American fighting forces that have sunshine patriots, that our dedication On this anniversary of the historic made possible the unprecedented pros- to the men and women who have served World War I armistice in Europe, I perity and political freedom that we should not solely be reserved for days honor the great achievements and sac- enjoy today. As a result of the constant such as this. Rather, we should be cog- rifices of the acting and retired mem- struggle to defend freedom, we now nizant of their contributions every day bers of the United States Armed Serv- have 26 million American veterans, of the year. ices and thank them for their bravery. about 768,000 of which are from my Throughout my time in Congress, I Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, I pay home state of Georgia. am pleased to have fought hard on be- tribute to the 26.4 million military vet- With each year that passes, these half of the issues of importance to our erans and their families living in the veterans are growing older. At last Nation’s veterans: improving veterans

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.013 S11PT1 S14392 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 health care and making it more acces- California desert, wishing very sin- This kind of delay and lack of access sible, protecting our veterans’ benefits, cerely to be elsewhere at that moment. to healthcare is unacceptable and yet including the authorization of concur- What they all have in common, and is all too common. It is also com- rent receipt, and ensuring that each what we all honor today, is that they pletely unnecessary. The difficulties veteran has a proper burial. did not shrink from the service to their faced by our veterans are caused by This week, the Senate may take up country, and still don’t. chronic underfunding of the VA health the Department of Veterans Affairs Ap- As they did not shrink from service system. propriations bill—which will fund VA during World War II in the Pacific and The VA system relies on the annual and its programs during the current in Europe, in long and bitter wars in appropriations process, a process which fiscal year. I am pleased to have joined Korea and Vietnam, in Lebanon and is contentious and unpredictable and with many of my colleagues in working Grenada, in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, which makes it all too tempting to to increase the VA budget by $1.3 bil- and, today, in Iraq and in Afghanistan, slash current year funding regardless lion—to ensure that all veterans re- on hundreds of ships in every ocean of of how this affects our veterans. ceive the benefits to which they are en- the world; in Minot, ND; and in Fort This year, for example, veterans or- titled. I am hopeful that this increase Dix, NJ; on Diego Garcia and in ganizations estimate that the VA will ultimately be included in the bill Misawa, Japan; at Ft. Benning, GA; on health system needs $1.8 billion more when it is sent to the President for sig- Paris Island, SC; and at Walter Reed than the President requested. nature. Army Hospital and Bethesda Naval As a result, veterans advocates have In my view, we have a responsibility Hospital here in Washington. once again found themselves playing to adequately fund these programs— They responded to a sense of duty, catch-up. programs critical to the continued obligation, and a desire to belong to or The solution is mandatory funding of health and welfare of our Nation’s vet- strive for something separate and apart VA health needs so that veteran’s ben- erans. It is simply a matter of fairness from personal ambition. efits are no longer subject to the poli- and is, indeed, the very least we can do They may not even see or clearly un- tics of the annual appropriations proc- to honor their commitment and service derstand at the time their own motiva- ess. to this Nation. tions, but they do not shrink from Without such a mechanism, the VA Mr. CORZINE. Mr. President, I rise service all the same, and our country is system will remain chronically under- to call attention to the importance of the better for it. funded, and veterans needing care will the Veterans Day commemoration A simple choice on the face of it—the continue to have to wait disgracefully ceremonies and private remembrances, willingness to serve—but one that, long periods of time. both formal and informal, being ob- given the unparalleled abundance of I also wish to note that today I am served today by Americans around the choices that Americans today enjoy— introducing the Comprehensive Hepa- Nation and across the world. we must recognize, honor and support. titis C Health Care Act, to provide in- Given the many demands on this As we stop to honor our veterans, we creased testing and care for veterans at body and the hectic pace of modern must go beyond rhetorical support. risk of or infection with hepatitis C. life, it is all too easy for the Senate, as We must provide for those who have Most veterans who have hepatitis C well as for all Americans, to fail to served the rest of us so well, and we don’t even know it, and often don’t get give this day—Veterans’ Day the atten- need to do so in practical and concrete treatment until it’s too late. tion it demands. It is all too easy to let terms, for our debt to our veterans’ de- Yet despite recent advances in care, the date on the calendar pass without mands that we respond to their needs the VA still lacks a comprehensive ap- stopping and reflecting. and their concerns, and demands that proach to testing and treating veterans But, as citizens, as well as public we deliver the benefits they have for the virus. servants, we must never fail to com- earned through their service and sac- The legislation I am introducing memorate, honor, and remember in our rifice. would improve access to hepatitis C hearts our veterans and their sacrifices First, full accountability for all MIA/ testing and treatment for all veterans, and what those sacrifices have meant POW’s, without exception. There is no ensure that the VA spends all allocated to our country. higher obligation for a country than to hepatitis C funds on testing and treat- A mere once a year we are called to keep faith with those of its fighting ment, and set new, national policies for publicly applaud and honor the many men and women who may still be in hepatitis C care. Americans, living and deceased, men enemy hands. We must not turn away. I have also introduced and will con- and women of every ethnic group and In this regard, I urge the administra- tinue to push for a measure to lower walk of life, who have given of them- tion and the Defense Department to the retirement age for reservists to 55. selves, their time, their youth, their continue their search for CAPT Mi- This measure is a way to ensure fair- sweat, and, all too frequently, their chael Scott Speicher, United States er treatment for reservists in their ca- blood, and their lives. Their sacrifices Navy, whose family is from New Jersey reer planning and to make a reserve ca- have kept us free and enabled us to re- and whose aircraft was shot down over reer more attractive to military mem- main the last best hope of the world. Iraq in 1991. bers who might otherwise opt out of About this nation’s revolution, Then-Commander Speicher was re- further service. Thomas Paine wrote: ported as the first American service We need to think about equity for re- These are the times that try men’s souls. member killed in action in Desert servists, and about the attractiveness The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot Storm. His status, however, was of Reserve careers as our global strat- will shrink from the service of their country; changed by the Department of Defense egy comes to rely ever more heavily on but he that stands it now, deserves the love from killed in action to MIA and then, reservist citizen-soldiers. and thanks of man and woman. in 2002, to POW. More indications sug- We also owe our veterans full concur- In observing Veterans Day today, we gesting Captain Speicher may have rent receipts. offer our love and thanks to those survived his 1991 shoot-down came to There should be no conflict between a Americans, over the course of our his- light after our liberation of Iraq. veteran’s right to receive his or her re- tory, who did not shrink from the serv- The Defense Department’s search for tirement benefits and a disabled vet- ice of their country. him, with the urging of my Senate col- eran’s right to disability income. And Most came to military service will- leagues and me, must continue until yet, incredibly enough, disabled vet- ingly, even eagerly, many with good Captain Speicher’s fate is fully ac- erans continue to pay what is, in ef- humor and high hopes, some more re- counted for. fect, a tax on their disability pay- luctantly, and more than a few who, Turning to the VA health care sys- ments. It is time—once and for all—to frankly, would rather have been else- tem, tens of thousands of veterans now eliminate this tax. where. must wait six months and more for ap- Ensuring that all veterans have ac- I can remember myself some years pointments. Some find they have to cess to quality healthcare is a small re- ago, as a young marine humping an 81- wait as long as one to two years to be payment for the contributions veterans millimeter mortar tube across the seen. have made in service to this Nation.

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.109 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14393 Unfortunately, the current Veterans the uniform of our Armed Forces to de- We, the Congress, must keep trying Administration healthcare funding for- fend our way of life. to do the right thing by these our mula—VERA—puts veterans in high- As a nation, we have dedicated this greatest Americans. cost areas, such as New Jersey, at a se- day to reflect upon the service and sac- The Nation continues to be truly vere disadvantage in getting adequate rifice of the many generations of Amer- blessed that our youth, our future gen- medical care. icans who have delivered and preserved erations, take inspiration from the de- Vets shouldn’t be forced to wait for us a nation free and strong. votion and sacrifice of those who have months for an appointment at a vet- This Veterans Day is even more sol- answered the Nation’s call to arms in erans medical clinic or to shoulder ex- emn and thoughtful for all Americans the past and those who defend us cessive fees because of a quirk in the for we are a nation at war. Americans around a very dangerous world today. formula that funds VA health care. are fully aware that hundreds of thou- Today we are reminded of where we That is why I introduced legislation sands of their neighbors, son and have been as a nation, and upon whose to make VA healthcare funding fairer daughters, husbands and wives, fathers sacrifice we have become what we are. by accounting for the distinct financial and mothers are in harms way around Let us rededicate ourselves to free- challenges confronting veterans and the globe. Americans are fully aware dom and justice and peace—and the healthcare providers in different parts that over four hundred service mem- sacrifice of those men and women of the country. bers have lost and continue to risk whose service will deliver and preserve This legislation, S. 1014, would re- their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan them for America and our friends place the national income threshold for while over 2,400 more have been wound- around the world. For this we are a classification as a low-income vet- ed or injured. All Americans share the stronger people, a stronger nation, and eran—currently $24,000 for all parts of pain and sense of loss for those killed a stronger community. the country—with regional thresholds and those suffering from wounds. And Let us pray for the safety of our men defined by the Department of Housing Americans recognize and are ready for and women in uniform past and and Urban Development. the many sacrifices that lie ahead. We present, and let us pray for the comfort This adjustment would help low-in- are a resolute people determined to de- of their loved ones. come veterans across the country af- fend our liberty and bring peace and Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, once ford quality health care and help en- justice to a dangerous world. This de- again we find our young men and sure that Veterans Integrated Service termination is evident throughout our women in harm’s way in a foreign land. Networks, VISN’s, receive adequate Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and As they have so many times in our his- funding to care for their distinct vet- Coast Guard. tory, Americans in uniform carry the eran populations. I saw it myself when I visited soldiers torch of freedom in their hands and the In thinking about our veterans, we of the Florida National Guard’s 124th promise of peace in their hearts as they must also consider the brave men and Infantry in Baghdad last summer. They face those who would rule by tyranny women fighting for us now in Iraq and are tough, well-trained, devoted citizen and violence. On this Veterans Day, I in Afghanistan and elsewhere. soldiers demonstrating their profes- rise not only to commend our veterans As we honor their service, we must sionalism every day on the dangerous but also to recognize the men and never forget what we owe them—now streets of a city that still quakes with women of the State of Maine engaged and when they return. war. These great soldiers are worthy of on the front lines in the Global War on With so many Guard men and women their legacy; they are worthy of our ad- Terrorism. and Reservists serving, it is critical miration and gratitude. Maine is well represented by young that we extend to them the benefits We must be worthy of them and keep men and women serving on active duty they deserve. the Nation’s promises to them-our in our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, One benefit for which we have had to promise to attend to their welfare and and Coast Guard. Since September 11, fight is the extension of TRICARE cov- the welfare of their families. 2001, citizen-soldiers from across the erage to all reservists. We have suc- As Abraham Lincoln instructed us, State of Maine from all Reserve and ceeded in getting this critical benefit ours is an obligation to, ‘‘to care for Guard components have closed ranks for a year. We will, therefore, be revis- him who shall have borne the battle, with those on active duty to protect iting this issue next year. I and like- and for his widow, and for his orphan.’’ our shores and secure our future. minded colleagues remain advocates of Too often we fall short on this care. We The men and women from Maine extending such coverage to reservists. must meet this obligation with the have left homes, jobs, and loved ones to As we asked our young citizens in the same sense of determination and honor answer the call to duty. Senior Master past, we are again today asking them as our veterans’ service is always ren- Sergeant Stephen Valley is among to do extraordinary things, and we dered. them. Steve, who hails from need to see that they have the proper We have underfunded our veterans Millinocket, ME, left the active Air care and assistance when they come health care system and the backlog of Force in 1994 after nearly eighteen home. There is no excuse for failing claims remains unacceptably high. years of service. In 1998, he joined the them. This is not right. Air Force Reserve, and despite family We all remember that Veterans Day We have partially eliminated the dis- challenges, including a father sick with began as a commemoration of the Ar- abled veterans tax, or Concurrent Re- Parkinson’s disease, stepped forward mistice which ended World War I, a ceipt, but only for one-third of those and mobilized in November of 2001. catastrophic event which this body de- entitled to both their retired pay and Steve served nearly continously in the scribed as ‘‘the most destructive, san- disability compensation. We have cre- Middle East since then, including duty guinary and far reaching war in human ated among our retired veterans the in Iraq and Afghanistan, until he re- annals’’ to that point. ‘‘haves’’ and ‘‘have-nots’’ and this is tired from active service on November We pause and remember, and we simply not right. They are all worthy 1. He is a man of courage and char- again commit ourselves to honor and and deserve to have what they have acter. He represents the best we offer to stand by the veterans of the Great been promised now without delay. to a world longing for freedom and War and of all America’s wars, past and We have done nothing to improve our peace. present. systems for caring for the survivors of Mainers are deployed around the Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. Presi- veterans or retirees, especially those globe. Nearly twenty-five percent of dent, I am proud to come to the floor of that were 100 percent disabled. The De- the Maine Army National Guard is on the Senate and join in solemn tribute partment of Defense Survivor Benefits alert, mobilized, or deployed. Maine to the millions of American men and Plan remains uncorrected for offsets National Guard soldiers are guarding women who have protected our freedom based on benefits from Social Security prisoners at Guantanamo Naval Sta- over the long history of our Republic. and Dependency and Indemnity Com- tion in Cuba. Soldiers of Company E, Every American knows it is part of pensation—reductions in income in 120th Aviation of Bangor are control- our national character to pay tribute amounts and at times that widows ling air traffic in Afghanistan. Mem- to the service of those who have worn often can least afford. bers of the 112th Air Ambulance Unit

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.136 S11PT1 S14394 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 from Bangor are performing medivac face the challenges of daily living as the war to preserve this Nation. I will missions in Iraq. Soldiers of the 11-36 they suffer from the separation and close with the words of Abraham Lin- Transportation Company from Bangor from the relentless worry. The news of coln: and Sanford are moving supplies across any casualty strikes a chilling chord in I feel how weak and fruitless must be any Iraq and Kuwait. Soldiers from the 94th their hearts. Every death, every injury, words of mine which should attempt to be- Military Police Company of Maine and is a blow to them as they wait, and guile you from the grief of a loss so over- New Hampshire are performing police hope, and pray. whelming. But I cannot refrain from ten- missions across Iraq and are helping to In September, I met with family dering you the consolation that may be members of the deployed soldiers of the found in the thanks of the Republic they train Iraqi forces to assume security died to save. responsibilities. 94th Military Police company. These I pray that our Heavenly Father may as- This past summer, I went to Iraq. I families have had to endure two ex- suage the anguish of your bereavement, and met hundreds of American and British tended deployments in three years: the leave you only the cherished memory of the troops. I saw people from Maine per- 94th conducted a peacekeeping rotation loved and lost, and the solemn pride that forming key roles in rebuilding the to Bosnia that ended in 2001; in 2002, must be yours to have laid so costly a sac- country after the fall of Saddam Hus- the 94th was called to arms again and rifice upon the altar of freedom. sein’s brutal regime. In the city of is performing admirably in Iraq. The Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, Kirkuk, I ate lunch with five service soldiers of the 94th are proud and pro- today, I had hoped to be in Sutton, WV members from Maine—Specialist Greg- fessional and committed to getting the to fully celebrate Veterans Day with ory Norster of Phillips, Chief Warrant job done. Their families bear the bur- West Virginia veterans and their fami- Officer Brian Mucci of Shapleigh, Spe- den of absence and uncertainty. Among lies. Since the Senate is in session, I cialist Wayne Goodrich from Oakland, them was Penny Mills, wife of Sergeant must be in Washington, but I do want Specialist Erin Maynard from Curtis Mills of Shapleigh, ME. to recognize some of our Nation’s fin- Washburn, and Senior Airman Bill Just one week later, soldiers of the est men and women who have served to Spreng from Ellsworth. The contribu- 94th were ambushed in Iraq. Two were protect that which we hold most dear, tions of Mainers to bring freedom to severely wounded: Specialist Chris- our very freedom. the people of Iraq make me very proud. topher Kotch of Brunswick and Ser- Last weekend, I was in West Virginia The courage and commitment of the geant Curtis Mills. Soon after, I visited and I had the chance to talk with American and other coalition troops them at Walter Reed Army Medical Army Sergeant Jared Welker of Put- were strikingly clear during my visit. Center. There was Penny, standing by nam County. Sergeant Welker is a tank By night, many of the soldiers conduct her husband. We had no idea we would gunner who saw considerable action in raids on pockets of resistance; by day, meet again—not so soon, not under Iraq, and who has just recently re- they renovate schools, rebuild roads those circumstances. Sergeant Mills, turned home. I had the privilege to and utilities, and help Iraqis take their with the support of his wife and family, spend a few hours with this young sol- first steps toward democracy. Despite is recovering well. After reconstructive dier. Hearing about the war in Iraq the continuing danger, the harsh living surgery and extensive physical ther- from his point of view, a young man conditions, and the oppressive heat, apy, he will one day return to work as serving in a tank division entering morale among the soldiers and Marines a letter carrier. Specialist Kotch, after Baghdad, made me very proud of the I met was high. Army Sergeant Mi- his recovery, will likely return to col- men and women serving in the mili- chael Levesque of Winslow put it best lege and a life of possibility and prom- tary—where ever they are stationed. when he told me how proud he was to ise. Sergeant Welker’s description of his have ‘‘helped to give the Iraqi people a In times of peace and in times of days in Iraq will stay with me. His precious gift: their freedom.’’ In trial, we rely on our young men and courage and his commitment to duty Kirkuk, where I met Michael, morale women to step forward for our defense. are truly inspiring. was particularly high because the The citizens of Maine have answered And it is also a sobering reminder of Iraqis there are so grateful. Every- the call. America’s first casualty in the the obligations that we in Congress where we went in this city south of the War on Terrorism was Master SGT have to fully support our troops in the Kurdish section, local citizens waved Evander Earl Andrews of Solon, ME, field, and at home, and as veterans and called out ‘‘thank you, America!’’ who lost his life in Qatar on October 10, later in their lives. By contrast, conditions—both in July 2001. Today, in Litchfield, ME, a father On Veterans Day, we should take and today—remain hostile in and grieves for his daughter, Army Warrant time to pay our respect to those who around Baghdad. Our troops face near Officer Sharon Swartworth, who mirac- put their lives on the line and sac- daily ambushes and sniper attacks. The ulously survived the attack on the rificed in our defense. We have a duty fighting goes on for many of our troops Pentagon two years ago but who did to honor all veterans in both word and who must contend with the threat of not survive an attack on a Black Hawk deed. rocket-propelled grenades, improvised helicopter in Iraq last Friday. These We honor them by remembering their explosive devices, and rogue gunmen. are but two of the soldiers who died not courage, their loyalty, and their love of Of all the places I have visited as a just in the service of their country, but country. My State has one of the member of the Senate Armed Services also in the service of mankind. They strongest traditions of military serv- Committee, including Afghanistan, did so on behalf of millions of people ice, and I could not be more proud of Bosnia, Kosovo, and Korea, nowhere they did not know—innocent Iraqis, Af- that. When the call has come to defend have I found the challenges more dif- ghans, and Americans who died on 9–11, this Nation, West Virginians have an- ficult and the dangers more present and all peace-loving people everywhere. swered in great numbers. In a State as than in Iraq. In the end, the commit- Our service members and veterans— patriotic as our Mountain State, re- ment of the Iraqi people will determine whether they served in World War I or minders of our veterans, heroes and whether Iraq will prosper in peace and II, Korea, Vietnam, Haiti, Kosovo, Bos- heroines, are everywhere. They stand freedom, or succumb to a violent mi- nia, Kuwait, or now in Afghanistan or as a reminder of the battles fought de- nority bent on division, destruction, Iraq—share a common bond: their uni- fending the principles of democracy. and domination. The dedicated young form is not that of a conqueror, but of Understanding the sense of patriot- men and women serving in uniform, a liberator. We can never fully pay the ism of the people of West Virginia is from Maine and from all over America, debt we owe those who put their lives what caused me to seek a seat on the are giving the Iraqi people the oppor- on the line to advance the cause of Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs tunity to seize what all humanity de- freedom. the day I arrived in the Senate 19 years sires and deserves. Nor can we repay the debt we owe ago. Joining the committee was one of On this day set aside to honor sac- those families and loved ones they the best decisions I ever made. rifice, we must also honor the sac- leave behind. The enormity of that These last few weeks in Congress rifices made by the spouses, parents, debt was best summed up one-hundred have been extremely important ones children and other loved ones of our thirty-nine years ago in a President’s for our Nation=s veterans. One of the troops. The families left behind must letter to a mother who lost five sons in most important issues of concern today

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.039 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14395 is the President’s budget request for Sergeant Welker, and the more than protect the American people, defend the Department of Veterans Affairs for 100,000 brave men and women serving national security, preserve freedom fiscal year 2004. Everything provided by today, are the heroes of Iraq. and safeguard our way of life. VA will be a direct result of the pro- Today, we honor all our young men This Veterans Day, let’s remember posed budget now before Congress. Re- and women who have paid the ultimate the patriots who are putting their lives grettably, the President’s budget re- sacrifice for freedom, and all those who on hold while they put their lives on quest for VA health care for fiscal year have served in our military. We need to the line. Their sacrifices guarantee 2004 will barely cover the cost of infla- remember to stand proud when we see America’s promise for generations to tion at our VA Medical Centers, but the American flag waving high in the come. Hundreds of thousands of Ameri- there is still time to fix those mis- air, and nod our heads in respect when cans have paid the ultimate sacrifice placed priorities. we pass by a veterans’ cemetery. We while serving in the Armed Forces. Full funding is needed for a health need to remember that behind each of Their irreplaceable loss of life reminds care system that is besieged with re- these symbols of America are the peo- us that freedom isn’t free. sponsibilities. I am fighting, along with ple who have made them so remark- It is important for younger genera- a number of my Senate colleagues, to able—our Nation’s veterans. tions to appreciate the service and sac- get an additional $1.8 billion appro- Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I rise rifice made by those serving their priated for VA health care before Con- to honor this day and the men and country. Awareness and appreciation gress recesses this year. women for whom it was established. On for veterans has decreased in recent In addition to our veterans who de- the eleventh hour of the eleventh day times as fewer individuals and families pend upon VA for their health care and of the eleventh month of 1918, the ar- in America have a personal connection prescription drugs today, current law mistice was signed ending the first with the Armed Forces. allows members of the military, who modern global conflict. serve during an armed conflict, to use Now that family members, friends, World War I was an exceptionally neighbors, and other fellow citizens are VA upon their return. This includes bloody conflict that required tremen- currently deployed Reservists and Na- again putting themselves in harm’s dous sacrifices. It was therefore appro- way in service to their country, I hope tional Guardsmen, who are such a big priate for President Wilson to establish part of West Virginia’s contribution to all Americans will take the oppor- Armistice Day as a time to recognize tunity this Veterans Day to remember our war effort. The system must be those who served in that war. adequately funded for all these vet- and honor all veterans, to whom we Unfortunately, the hope for a new, owe our freedom. erans. more peaceful world after the Great Today I salute the patriotism, cour- Another critical issue of concern con- War was shattered as we found our- age, and sacrifice of all American vet- tinues to be long-term care for vet- selves embroiled in a life or death erans who have answered their coun- erans. As our veteran population grows struggle against tyranny. Americans try’s call in times of need. older, VA must make sure that it can again rose to the challenge. Over meet the need for long-term care. A 405,000 American soldiers lost their Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, as I was bill I introduced earlier this year ex- lives and over 671,000 were wounded. watching the sunrise this morning, I tending, for five years, the congres- That’s over three times the casualties thought of the men and women cur- sional mandate requiring VA to pro- of World War I. Still, the bravery and rently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, vide long-term care for veterans sacrifice of our men and women in uni- and our Nation’s veterans of past wars. through both nursing homes and com- form showed the world the extent to Today, we must remember those who munity-based options still has poten- which the United States of America have sacrificed to defend the freedoms tial to be enacted this year. This is ex- was prepared to go to preserve liberty. and ideals all Americans enjoy. In our tremely important legislation, and I Then, after our soldiers and sailors thoughts are not just the proud Ameri- will continue to push until this become were called upon again to fight aggres- cans who are fighting in Iraq and Af- law. If I cannot convince my colleagues sion in Korea, it became evident that it ghanistan today, nor just the members to act this year, I will be right back was necessary to set aside a day to rec- of the ‘‘Greatest Generation’’ who next year fighting for it until it is ognize all American veterans. To en- fought in World War II. We think about done. courage Americans to pay respects to those who lost their lives or served in I was thrilled to be in Clarksburg last all those who have served in America’s the extended Cold War, the Korean month for the ground breaking of our Armed Forces, President Eisenhower War, Vietnam or who gave their lives new State veterans’ home, which will signed into law a proclamation in 1954 in some of the less-known engagements be built adjacent to the Clarksburg VA changing the name of the November 11 across the globe aimed at preserving Medical Center. I have worked closely holiday to Veterans Day. our country and preserving basic with both State and Federal officials Today, we thank all those who have human rights throughout the world. on this project over the last several risked life and limb in service to their Of course, most in our minds right years, and I am very proud of everyone country, including those who served in now are 130,000 men and women serving who has been involved in making this Vietnam and the Persian Gulf war, as in Iraq. Over 30,000 of these troops are much needed nursing home a reality. It well as Somalia, Bosnia, Kosovo, and reservists who left their civilian jobs is time that West Virginia had a State other smaller conflicts. It is particu- and families to serve in Iraq with pride veterans’ nursing home. larly appropriate today to pay tribute and determination. Whether Active- In closing, I would like to read a to the new generation of veterans who Duty soldiers or Reserves, every single paragraph from a letter found in the are serving their country so bravely in person in the military is there because gear of a 20-year-old boy from Beckley the global war on terrorism. they want to be there, and we owe serving during World War II. I think it Americans have never hesitated to them a special kind of gratitude for is appropriate on this Veterans Day. answer the call of duty and this gen- their service. Private First Class Walter Walker eration is no exception. America con- Today we should not just think about was killed in battle in 1944 and he had tinues to owe an immeasurable debt of our veterans, but also address policies written a letter to be delivered to his gratitude to the brave men and women that will directly address their needs, parents in case of his death. who respond to the call of duty. Fol- whether they are still in the service or He wrote: lowing in the footsteps of those who after they have returned. We must Frankly I think I will come back, but you served in the 20th century, our men and come together as a Senate to ensure never can tell what little accident will hap- that we honor that unspoken social pen. I am doing this for my country and peo- women in uniform are living up to a ple I love. So that little children may grow heritage of service, loyalty, honor, sac- contract with our active troops, guar- up to be free and not have to take orders rifice, and patriotism passed down for anteeing superb quality-of-life pro- from devils like Hitler and Tojo. I will gladly generations. grams exist for our active service give my life to keep you and dad free as long Members of the active duty military, members and their families and that as you may live. National Guard, and Reserves selflessly they will never become forgotten sol- Private Walker was a hero of WWII. put their country first. They serve to diers of history.

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.138 S11PT1 S14396 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 Let’s come behind our citizen sol- clothing. Mike got himself a piece of Time and again, our Nation has diers of the Guard and Reserve to en- white cloth and a piece of red cloth and called its sons and daughters to put sure they and their families are as fashioned himself a bamboo needle. themselves in harm’s way, and many healthy as possible. And, above all, Over a period of a couple, of months, he bear the scars of battle forever. Despite let’s make sure our veterans have a sewed the American flag on the inside the rhetoric of praise that we hear flourishing medical program to ensure of his shirt. again and again, too often when their they receive the high-quality care they Every afternoon, before we had a service ends, these veterans are forgot- deserve. bowl of soup, we would hang Mike’s ten, except on Veterans Day. We have On this time-honored day, we express shirt on the wall or our cell, and say consistently underfunded the veterans’ our gratitude to our veterans, we re- the Pledge of Allegiance. I know that health care system. The Veterans’ Ad- member their courage and dedication, saying the Pledge of Allegiance may ministration is now preparing plans to and we act to make up a small part of not seem the most important or mean- close veterans’ hospitals in New Eng- the large debt we owe them. ingful part of our day now, but I can land and across the Nation. They op- Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, today I assure you that—for those men in the pose allowing disabled veterans to re- wish to pay my respects to my fellow stark prison cell—it was indeed the ceive disability benefits if they also re- veterans. It is only through the leader- most important and meaningful event ceive military retirement compensa- ship, dedication and sacrifice of our of our day. tion. men and women in uniform, that we Our day, the Vietnamese searched As troops continue to serve in Iraq, are able to enjoy the freedoms that our cell and discovered Mike’s shirt we need to make sure we can take care being an American entails. with the flag sewn inside, and removed of them and their families, especially No matter what your views on the it. That evening they returned, opened when they return home. We have a sol- war on terror or the war in Iraq, all the door of the cell, called for Mike emn responsibility to those who are Americans can unite behind our brave Christian to come out, closed the door willing to sacrifice so much. We do men and women in uniform. These fine of the cell, and for the benefit of all of them a grave injustice when they re- Americans have truly answered our Na- us, beat Mike Christian severely for turn home to be cast aside. Today, tens tion’s highest calling and we are better the next couple of hours. of thousands of newly discharged vet- off for it. Today is a day to give thanks Then they opened the door of the cell erans are unemployed. National Guard to these heroes. and threw him back inside. He was not and Reserve soldiers face lower wages On Veterans Day, I like to share the in good shape. We tried to comfort and and possible job loss while they are de- story of one of my heroes during my take care of him as well as we could. ployed. The Uniformed Services Em- service, Mike Christian. I have shared The cell in which we lived had a con- ployment and Reemployment Rights his story before and it has become fa- crete slab in the middle on which we Act, USERRA, protects soldiers from miliar to many, yet it bears repeating. slept. Four naked light bulbs in each employment discrimination, but serv- This year, as Americans serve across corner of the room. ice members can have difficulty enforc- the globe in important battles against After things quieted down, I went to ing their rights. error and tyranny, Mike Christian’s lie down to go to sleep. As I did, I hap- We can’t have any more situations story takes on even more meaning. In pened to look in the corner of the like the one at Fort Stewart, where the same manner as service in Viet- room. Sitting there beneath that dim Guard and Reserve troops were housed nam, a new generation of heroes is light bulb, with a piece of white cloth, in deplorable accommodations, with emerging in Iraq. a piece of red cloth, another shirt and unacceptable access to health care and In the early years of our imprison- his bamboo needle, was my friend, needed services to heal their injuries. ment in Hanoi, the North Vietnamese Mike Christian. Sitting there, with his Such neglect is no way for a grateful kept us in solitary confinement, or if eyes almost shut from his beating, Nation to honor its armed services. We we were fortunate, two or three to a making another American Flag. He can and we must do better. cell. In 1971, the North Vietnamese was not making the flag because it For generations, we have honored our moved us from these conditions of iso- made Mike Christian feel better. He fallen veterans on November 11 each lation into large cells with as many as was making the flag because he knew year. The Armistice Agreement that 30 to 40 men to a room. This was, as how important it was for us to be able ended the First World War was signed you can imagine, a wonderful chance. to pledge our allegiance to our flag and on this historic day in 1918—the elev- And was a direct result of the efforts of country. enth hour of the eleventh day of the millions of Americans, led by people Duty, Honor, Country. We must eleventh month that year. Many of like Nancy and Ronald Reagan, on be- never forget the millions of Americans those we honor today have fallen in half of a few hundreds POWs, 20,000 who, with their courage, with their battle in Iraq. miles from home. sacrifice, and with their lives, made Last week, I attended the funeral One of the men who moved into my those words live for all of us. service of a Massachusetts soldier who cell was Mike Christian. Mike came This year, as we pause to remember gave his life in combat there and was from a small town near Selma, AL. He those men and women currently serv- laid to rest in Arlington National Cem- didn’t wear a pair of shoes until he was ing their country, as well as our family etery. It was a beautiful fall day and 13 years old. At 17, he enlisted in the and friends who serve before us, we the military ceremony was conducted U.S. Navy. He later earned a commis- need to remember the sacrifices of peo- with solemn dignity and utmost rev- sion. He became a naval aviator, was ple like Mike Christian who made this erence. It was a very moving moment shot down and captured in 1967. Mike Nation what it is today. to be there with his family and friends had a keen and deep appreciation for Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, Amer- and veterans of his unit. His parents the opportunities this county—and our ica today has the most powerful, most have lost a son, and the Nation has lost military—provide for people who want capable and best-equipped military in a hero. As the bugler played taps, and to work and want to succeed. the history of the world. But none of the sounds of the rifle volleys from a The uniforms we wore in prison con- this would be possible without the final salute faded across the Arlington sisted of a blue short-sleeved shirt, brave men and women who volunteer hills, it was moving to see that the vet- trousers that looked like pajama trou- to serve in the Armed Forces, who ac- erans there had also lost a brother, al- sers and rubber sandals that were made cept any challenge and face any danger though none of them knew the fallen out of automobile tires. I recommend to protect their country on battlefields soldier personally. The brave para- them highly; one pair lasted my entire around the world. Each of them is a trooper who had tried to carry his stay. volunteer—no conscription, no draft. dying comrade to safety during the at- As part of the change in treatment, They have a genuine desire to serve, tack was also there. His silent presence the Vietnamese allowed some prisoners and they do so with great sacrifice spoke volumes about the valor and to receive packages from home. In with great honor, great courage, great dedication that our service members some of these packages were hand- commitment, and often with great sac- give to our Nation every day, and have kerchiefs, scarves, and other items of rifice. given us throughout our history ever

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.140 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14397 since that day at Concord Bridge, when publicly recognize their sacrifices and our promise to America’s veterans. So the embattled farmers stood and fired contributions. It is up to use to make what can we do about it? the shot heard ’round the world. sure that they get the recognition they Simply put, we need to make vet- On Veterans Day 2003, we thank our have earned—and not just on Veterans erans services a priority once again. veterans. We remember those who have Day. It is one of the reasons why a few No. 1, to cut down on the long waits given the last full measure of devotion years ago I worked to ensure that all that veterans endure; to help expedite to our country, and we affirm our sup- veterans could get the military funeral claims; and to avoid higher fees and co- port for all who now wear the uniforms honors. My father had them, and they payments. We need to increase funding of our armed forces. We give thanks to meant a great deal to our family. for veterans services. all who have served America so well in I was proud to introduce legislation To end the annual appropriations years gone by, and to all the brave men and to work with the VA and veterans game, we should make VA healthcare and women serving now in the ongoing service organizations to ensure that funding mandatory. That is why I sup- war against terrorism. And we pledge, any family that requests military fu- port the Veterans’ Health Care Fund- in words that too often pass and are neral honors can get them. ing Guarantee Act. It would make vet- soon forgotten, to do a better job of In addition to my own family experi- erans’ healthcare an automatic pri- meeting our responsibility to them ences, when I was a senior in college at ority for our Nation. every day, not just on each November Washington State University, I spent a The VFW, AMVETS, the Disabled 11. May God give us the strength to semester interning at the Seattle Vet- American Veterans and many other make each day a Veterans Day. erans Hospital, helping to treat young veterans groups strongly support this The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who soldiers returning from Vietnam. They bill. yields time? were my age at the time. I will never We must also make sure that the De- The Senator from Washington. forget the sound of the door locking be- partment of Veterans Affairs does not Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I ask hind me after walking on to the hos- close critical medical facilities at a unanimous consent to add five addi- pital’s psychiatric ward to spend the time when more are seeking VA tional minutes on each side. day with these heroes. While these healthcare. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without combat veterans were my age, they had In addition, we must end the disabled objection, it is so ordered. endured experiences most of us could veterans tax and ensure that veterans Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, on never imagine. are not penalized just because they re- this Veterans Day, I want to share a Today, as I see an administration ceive disability pay. few ideas about the meaning this day that is considering closing veterans I am proud to be a cosponsor of a holds for my family and for thousands hospitals in Washington State—even as plan that would authorize full payment of families throughout Washington today’s veterans have to wait 6 months of both retirement pay and disability State. just to see a doctor, and as the war in compensation to half a million disabled Today is a day to honor the sacrifices Iraq adds to the number of veterans military retirees. And unlike other that generations of Americans have who will need medical care—I get proposals, our plan would take effect made to defend our country and to sup- upset, and I fight with everything I immediately, instead of over 10 years. And finally, we have to do right by port freedom throughout the world. It have. Our veterans have already fought today’s veterans and by tomorrow’s is a day to reflect on the courage and for our country, they should not have veterans. The brave men and women bravery of our soldiers. And it is made to fight to get the healthcare or bene- who are serving in Iraq and Afghani- even more special as we think of all fits they were promised, so we’ve got to stan today will need our help when our military personnel who are de- fight on their behalf. ployed in Iraq, Afghanistan and other Today we must ask, Are we keeping they return home. How we treat them hostile environments. But it is much our promise to America’s veterans? will send a signal to a generation of more than that. Here are some facts to help us answer young people who may be considering It is a day to make sure that we are that question. military service. We have to keep our promise today living up to the promise we make to all Fact: Right now, 80,000 veterans are and tomorrow. veterans—a promise that President waiting 6 months or longer for an ap- So while we are currently coming up Lincoln described as: pointment at VA hospitals. short, I am going to keep pushing for . . . to care for him who shall have borne the Fact: For the past 2 years, an average the solutions that will truly serve our battle, and for his widow and his orphan. of 14,000 veterans have been waiting veterans. America’s veterans have Today throughout Washington State, more than 15 months for their ‘‘expe- earned our respect, and they have people are coming together to honor dited’’ disability claims to be finalized. earned the benefits they were promised our veterans at places such as the Fact: Veterans could face new fees when they signed up. They should not Tahoma National Cemetery, the Wash- and higher co-payments—just to get have to fight for the care and support ington Veterans Home, and in commu- the healthcare they are already enti- they were promised. nities large and small. Washington tled to. On this day—and every day that I am State is home to almost 700,000 vet- Fact: Each year in Congress there is given the honor of representing them— erans, and every day I am honored to a debate over how much money we I will stand up and fight for Washing- represent them in the United States should spend on veterans’ healthcare. ton’s veterans and the freedom and se- Senate. Too often, our veterans lose out to curity they have given us through Growing up, I saw firsthand the many other budget priorities. their sacrifices in war and peace. ways that military service can affect Fact: Disabled veterans pay a high I hope we keep our promise. both veterans and their families. penalty through what is called the Thank you, Mr. President, I yield the My father served in World War II. He ‘‘Disabled Veterans Tax.’’ They must floor. was among the first soldiers to land on give up a dollar of their pension for The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who Okinawa. He came home as a disabled every dollar of disability pay they re- yields time? veteran and was awarded the Purple ceive. Mr. PRYOR. Mr. President, how Heart. I should note that, like many Fact: The VA is looking to ‘‘recon- much time remains on the Democratic soldiers of his generation, my father figure’’ veterans’ health care and is side? did not talk about his experiences dur- now studying the closure of two VA fa- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Sixteen ing the war. In fact, we only really cilities in Washington State. minutes 30 seconds. learned about them by reading his And finally, the war in Iraq—and the Mr. PRYOR. Mr. President, I ask journals after he passed away. tremendous toll it is taking on our unanimous consent to speak for 10 min- And I think that experience offers a soliders—is increasing the number of utes. larger lesson about veterans in general. veterans who will need medical care for The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without They are reluctant to call attention to years down the road. objection, it is so ordered. their service, and they are reluctant to Those are all facts. To me, they show Mr. PRYOR. Mr. President, I rise ask for help. That’s why we have to that we are coming up short in keeping today in honor of Veterans Day, our

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A11NO6.036 S11PT1 S14398 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 national day of remembrance estab- it to his mother because he was afraid This legislation also authorizes dis- lished to solemnly honor the sacrifices she would not sign the age waiver so he abled military retirees to collect their of American men and women who have went to a neighbor woman and said: retirement pay and disability com- served in military actions in behalf of Mother hurt her hand and she cannot pensation, otherwise known as concur- our country. sign this. Can you sign this on her be- rent receipt. This measure would ben- We recognize these men and women half? She did, and he was enlisted in efit millions of Americans who have for preserving our liberty, freedoms the U.S. Army. served our country for years but have and democratic way of life. For me, as At the age of 16, he was the youngest been prohibited from receiving both re- a first-year Senator representing the soldier in his unit, probably one of the tirement compensation and VA dis- men and women of Arkansas, this is an youngest in the Army. But when it was ability benefits. especially noteworthy Veterans Day. all said and done, as he ended his mili- Correcting this inequity for our vet- Since September 11th, numerous Ar- tary career, Chick had completed 46 erans is long overdue—in fact, 110 years kansans have engaged in our battle years of military service spanning overdue. I made a promise to take care against terrorism, serving in Afghani- World War I through Vietnam. That is of our service men and women who put stan and other points abroad. This fall, truly remarkable. In addition, he their lives on the line for our country. over 3,000 men and women of Arkansas, served in four branches—the Army, This provision indicates Congress’s in- members of our 39th Infantry Brigade Navy, Coast Guard, and the Merchant tention to finally honor its word. of the Arkansas National Guard, are Marine. I am also looking forward to debating preparing to travel to Iraq in support When I talked to Chick, I was enter- the VA/HUD appropriations bill where I of Operation Iraqi Freedom. tained and captivated by his stories, have an understanding we will be look- Every day my prayers include the but most of all I was impressed by his ing to add $1.3 billion to veterans brave men and women of Arkansas who sense of duty. In fact, when I asked health care. We cannot discount the serve, and have served, in our armed him if he would recommend military importance of this funding, especially forces. I pray that every single one of service to others, he said: If they would as more veterans come home from Af- our brave Americans in uniform will let me in, I would be there tomorrow ghanistan and Iraq and the global return safely home to the loving arms morning to sign up. world on terrorism. We must ensure of their families. In addition to Chick Matthews, I rec- that the Veterans’ Administration has Sadly, many of our veterans have not ognize another veteran who is a bit the resources it needs to look after returned safely home. Many of our vet- younger, but no less committed, to his those men and women who look after erans have paid the ultimate price, sac- country and to the State of Arkansas. us. rificing their lives on the altar of free- Randy Massanelli is a native Arkansan Mostly, this Veterans Day fills me dom. We must never forget their sac- who dutifully served in the U.S. Army with a sense of security and pride be- rifices. We must never forget the cost for 15 years. While in the Army, he rose cause of my faith in the ability and of freedom paid by our veterans. to the rank of major and served in skills of our men and women in uni- As he gazed on the battlefield at Get- Desert Storm where he was awarded form. This faith nourishes my hope for tysburg in 1863, Abraham Lincoln ut- the Bronze Star. Now he serves as my a peaceful future for my children and tered, ‘‘The brave men, living and dead, State director in Little Rock. I am the children of Arkansas. who struggled here, have consecrated grateful for the knowledge, experience, I know our men and women in uni- it, above our poor power to add or de- and perspective he brings to the office form are the most capable fighting tract. The world will little note, nor as I work to do what is best, not just force on Earth. I know these individ- long remember, what we say here, but for veterans and the troops around the uals will willingly endure personal sac- it can never forget what they did country and around the world, but also rifice and danger to defend our demo- here.’’ for the people of Arkansas. cratic values, just as our veterans of I am in a similar situation today, un- I have known Randy since we were yesteryear endured personal sacrifice able to articulate anything which even both at the University of Arkansas as and danger to provide us the freedom comes close to capturing the debt of undergraduates. I thank him today. He and democracy we enjoy today. I know gratitude each and every one of us has shown me time and time again our Armed Forces will be victorious in owes our veterans. No words can cap- what true devotion to his country real- their mission. ture my gratitude, or the gratitude of ly is. I am lucky to have him on my On this Veterans Day, I extend my Arkansas, towards our veterans. team and I am proud to call him a gratitude and the gratitude of every Yet, as I mentioned, Veterans Day is friend. I honor him today as a great Arkansan to our veterans and their a day of remembrance. This is a day to veteran. families. honor and remember those who have Last, I want to recognize another I yield the floor. served in our armed service. Last week, veteran on my staff, Wayne Palmer, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who I had the distinct pleasure and unique who also served in Desert Storm. yields time? opportunity to talk with Johnie Wayne is a tremendous asset to my of- The Senator from Texas. ‘‘Chick’’ Matthews. Chick, at 102 years fice. I thank him for his service to our Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I old, is Arkansas’s oldest living veteran. country. ask what the allocation of time is. Mr. Johnie ‘‘Chick’’ Matthews, a resi- Arkansans throughout the years have The PRESIDING OFFICER. There dent of Greenbrier, Arkansas, first an- followed Chick’s, Wayne’s, and Randy’s are 7 minutes 54 seconds on the Demo- swered the call to duty to serve this lead. I am proud to boast about my cratic side and 5 minutes on the Repub- country in 1917. That was 86 years ago. State’s tradition of military service. lican side. He was given the nickname Chick be- As veterans continue to risk life and Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, let cause he enlisted into the United limb for us, I will work as hard as I can me ask the Democratic Senator in the States Army when he was only 16 years to make sure they are taken care of be- Chamber if that is enough time for old. He was the youngest at his train- fore, during, and after their mission is them to finish. We need to be through ing facility at Camp Pike, AR. completed. at 12:15. His mother was a widow with mouths In the coming days, we will vote on Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I to feed and he realized that he needed the Defense authorization conference thank the Senator from Texas for mak- to help shoulder the financial respon- report. As a conferee, I was proud to ing the inquiry. The fact is I need sibilities of caring for his mother and work on this legislation, which in- about 10 minutes and the Senator from brothers. cludes a 3.7 percent across-the-board North Dakota needs 5 minutes. If that He went to Little Rock to enlist in military pay increase, expands could be accommodated on an equal ex- the Army. He lied about his age. The TRICARE coverage for the Guard and change basis, I suggest we ask unani- recruiter said: We are not sure we be- Reserve personnel and their families, mous consent to do so. lieve you, so go home and get your and provides benefits and programs to Mrs. HUTCHISON. How much more mother to sign this document. When he improve the overall quality of the pay would that extend the time on the went back home, he was scared to take for our service men and women. other side? How much more time would

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.019 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14399 that give us if we equally divided that, icopter was shot down are: Daniel A. Since the founding of our country, our 5 minutes plus the extra? Bader, Ernest G. Bucklew, Steven D. nearly 50 million men and women have The PRESIDING OFFICER. That Conover, Anthony D. D’Agostino, Paul answered the call of duty. There are would be an extra 8 minutes on the F. Fisher, Darius T. Jennings, Karina about 25 million veterans alive today. Democratic side and a total of 28 min- S. Lau, Keelan L. Moss, Brian H. Right now, we have 130,000 troops in utes. Penisten, Ross A. Pennanen, Brian D. Iraq, another 10,000 in Kuwait, and Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, if this Slavenas, Bruce A. Smith, Frances M. 10,000 in Afghanistan. Other Americans is a unanimous consent request for Vega, Paul Anthony Velazquez, and are serving in South Korea, in Bosnia more time, I would like to accommo- Joe N. Wilson. and Kosovo, and in every other corner date my colleagues. I have come to the We salute their bravery and their of the globe. floor with the expectation to speak at courage and their sacrifice. We owe our veterans and the brave noon, which it is now, on the Syria Ac- Sergeant Perez was on that heli- young men and women who currently countability Act, and actually I had copter because he had been granted serve in our military more than we can some time on veterans as well. I have leave to come home to celebrate his calculate. It is very tough duty. I know other commitments, such as, to go to third wedding anniversary. And now he that from personal experience. That is the White House for the bill signing has come home, in a flag-draped cas- why I deeply regret that the Senate is ceremony with the President. ket. Yesterday was his third anniver- in session today. I do not ever recall So I am glad to accommodate my sary and his funeral. He was 25 years the Senate being in session on Vet- colleagues, but if it is going to run for old. He leaves behind his wife Milagros, erans Day before. Frankly, I think it is 28 more minutes, that is going to pre- an infant daughter Jaileen, his mother disrespectful to veterans across Amer- clude my speaking on the Syria Ac- Luisa and father Edwin, and three ica and to the veterans in this body for countability Act. brothers, Elvin, Michael, and Leo. the Senate to be in session today. Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I As I said at the funeral yesterday, it Why are we doing it? Why are we do not think we need 28 minutes. I was is a sobering moment when you see the here? Well, we are told that we have a going to ask for 5 minutes for the Sen- reality of a life that has passed so full agenda and that we have very few ator from Alabama, which we have left quickly. All you have to do is look at days left to get our work done—work on our side. I think if you wanted—— the date of his birth—1978—and the that was supposed to be done six weeks Mr. LAUTENBERG. Fifteen. date of his death—2003—they are much ago. But how are we going to spend the Mrs. HUTCHISON. Fifteen? too close together. precious few days before we hope to ad- Mr. LAUTENBERG. Right. I appre- Sergeant Perez is the ninth New Jer- journ? We are going to take 30 hours of sey resident killed in Iraq. The other ciate the fact the Senator from Penn- that time to debate a handful of highly eight are: Army SP Simeon Hunte, who sylvania has other obligations, but this controversial judges whose nomina- was 23 years old, of Newark; Army 2LT is Veterans Day. I want to talk about tions Democrats object to. Richard Torres, who was 25 years old, veterans. I think we have that par- I feel compelled to put this chart up of Passaic; Army SFC Gladimir ticular obligation since we are here on the floor for everyone to see because Philippe, who was 37 years old, of Ro- today and we are not in our home it is kind of a scorecard that shows the selle; Army SP Kyle A. Griffin, who States, able to visit veterans, visit Clinton years and how many nominees was 20, of Emerson; Army SP Narson B. cemeteries, and talk to people about were confirmed in those years and the Sullivan, who was 21, of North Bruns- veterans. dozens of nominees who were blocked wick; Army SP Gil Mercado, who was The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there by the Republicans. Then we can see 25, of Paterson, my home town; Army objection to the request? how many of President Bush’s nomi- SSG Terry W. Hemingway, who was 39, Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, reserv- nees have been confirmed and how of Willingboro; and Army SP Michael ing—— many have been blocked by Democrats. Edward Curtin, who was 23, of Howell. Democrats are objecting to a total of Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, if I I feel a special kinship to these could ask a unanimous consent request young people because they were from four nominees who have neither the ex- and see if this is what people want: my State. I also feel a special kinship perience nor the temperament to be that there be 15 minutes divided on the because I am a veteran. I enlisted when confirmed to lifetime positions in the Democratic side as they wish and 5 I was 18 years old, right out of high federal judiciary. Four nominees have minutes to the Senator from Alabama, school. I served in Europe during World been blocked, 2 percent of the total. for a total of 20 minutes from now. Is War II. And we are being told that we cannot that an acceptable unanimous consent Today is Veterans Day. It has been afford the time today to be at home request to all on the floor? nearly 50 years since President Eisen- with our veterans or go to the ceme- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there hower signed a bill into law making teries or go to the veterans hospitals so objection? November 11 Veterans Day. that we can pay our respects to those Without objection, it is so ordered. The history of Veterans Day goes who have served or are serving this Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I back even further, to 1918, when an ar- country. We cannot be with our vet- thank the Senator from Texas. mistice between the Allied and Central erans today because we have to spend The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Powers brought World War I to an end 30 hours starting tomorrow to talk ator from New Jersey. at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the about four nominees. Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I 11th month. So, in all candor, I have to say that ask that I be reminded at the 9-minute On November 11, 1920, the British in- I am upset by our being here. It is not mark, if I have gotten that far, please, terred an unidentified British soldier in the question of another day’s work—we that I have 1 minute remaining. Westminster Abbey to commemorate can do the work—but that the majority I was in Newark yesterday, at our ca- the Armistice. The French interred an could not find time to permit Senators thedral there, attending the funeral of unidentified French soldier under the to be in their States with their con- SGT Joel Perez. Sergeant Perez had Arc de Triomphe in Paris. stituents, especially veterans, with the been deployed to Iraq as part of the In 1921, an American soldier’s re- families who have lost loved ones in Army’s 2nd Battalion, 5th Field Artil- mains were disinterred in France and Iraq or Afghanistan or Beirut or Viet- lery Regiment. He died on November 2 sent on the transatlantic voyage to nam or Korea or so many other places. when the Chinook helicopter he was in Washington, D.C., where they lay in When I look at the reason why we are was shot down. An article appeared in state in the Capitol Rotunda for three here today, it rings hollow, as far as I the New York Times on Sunday, and it days. Then, at 11:00 a.m. on November am concerned. I regret that we are listed the 16 soldiers, including Ser- 11, the remains of this Unknown Sol- here. This is the day we should meet geant Perez, the 16 young people who dier were buried at Arlington National with veterans groups. This is the day perished on behalf of our country, our Cemetery beneath a marble block when we remember the sacrifice that interests, our liberty. which reads, ‘‘Here rests in honored so many have made on our behalf. This The names of those who died along glory an American soldier known but is the day we ought to be thinking with Joel Perez when that Chinook hel- to God.’’ about how we respond to our need for

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.021 S11PT1 S14400 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 additional troops in Iraq. This is the We have soldiers in the field this very MP. His brother is in Germany. He is day we ought to think about what it is day at risk, carrying out the policy of also an MP. That is the kind of great, our brave young service men and this Senate, this Congress, that we rock-solid Americans who preserve, women should come home to when they passed by over a three-fourths vote. We protect, and defend our country on a have fulfilled their duty: adequate ought to be here talking about our daily basis. I am so proud of them. health care and jobs and opportunity. country and doing some of the coun- They serve us so well. What kind of a message do we send to try’s business. Just a little over a week ago I had our veterans and to those who cur- In fact, I was in Walter Reed Hospital the burden of calling Mrs. Roxy Bell. rently serve in our military? What this morning. I had the honor to meet Her son, Aubrey Bell, 33, a sergeant kind of message do we send to the with the service men and women who with the 214th MP Company, National young men and women we are trying to have been injured, some fairly seri- Guard Company from the Alabama Na- recruit? Today is a solemn day delib- ously, in the service of their country. tional Guard, was killed in a firefight erately set aside to pay tribute to our I met with Sergeant Larry Gill who through an improvised explosive device veterans, and the Senate is in session grew up in Mobile, AL, went to Murphy in Baghdad at the Al Bayra police sta- because we have to spend a day and a High School where my daughter went. tion where he was working. Sergeant half starting tomorrow talking about I knew his father, Lieutenant James Bell was part of the 214th MP company four judges. Gill, in the Mobile police department, a from Baldwin County, AL. I had the I want the veterans across the coun- great officer. Larry Gill had a severe pleasure to visit with them when I was try and the young men and women cur- injury to his lower leg. He has been in Iraq in August. I had supper with rently in harm’s way to know they are there over a month now. It is getting them. I talked to them. They talked appreciated, to know that some of the better. He was so optimistic. It was so about patrolling the streets of Baghdad misery they are going through now is wonderful to see his wife Leah who is a with the Iraqi police who had been understood. How do you do that? Ideal- school teacher at Murphy High School, brought on, which is exactly what we ly, you do that by taking the time nec- and his two children, Sean and Ryan, need to do to stabilize that country, essary to go and greet them personally. and be able to talk with them and see bring on more Iraqi police. They were You do it by making sure veterans’ the positive attitude he had, the com- so positive, had such extraordinarily benefits are adequate. You do it by mitment to serving his country. It was good morale. I was exceedingly proud making sure the medical care will be so inspiring. Larry Gill in 1983 was a of them. It was most painful to have to there, and the educational opportuni- young Marine serving in Beirut, Leb- call and talk to his mother at the loss ties. That is the appropriate way to anon when that embassy was attacked, of her fine son who lost his life serving show our veterans that we appreciate guarding the embassy as a marine, as his country. them. We are not going to show it by he was often called upon to do. He was All of us need to remember that. We working here today when, in fact, the knocked unconscious and had to be dug have sent those young men and women veterans back home would like to see out from the rubble of the attack. He out. They are serving at our direction. us back home. was a victim of terrorism in 1983. Now They are placing their lives on the line Be that as it may, we are stuck here he comes back as part of our war on for us on a daily basis. today. So I want to take this oppor- terrorism and is injured again. We ask God’s blessing and protection tunity to say in the most heartfelt way As he said, he thought he ought to be with each one of them and that we possible that I appreciate our veterans. start collecting baseball cards rather are given the wisdom to help guide And I salute the brave young men and than Purple Hearts. That just is an ex- them in the application of their abili- women who currently serve, especially ample of his spirit. ties and their lives in an effective way. those who serve in the Reserves and At the time he was injured, he was The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the National Guard. I appreciate the part of a National Guard unit from ator from North Dakota. enormous, enormous sacrifice that Alabama, the 1165th MP company. SPC Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, how many of them are making now that we Chris Harris and SGT Richard Barns much time remains? are asking them to serve a year or and SPC4 Jose Garcia were injured. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Six and a more at a time, taking them away I see Senator LAUTENBERG here. half minutes. from their families, their communities, SPC4 Garcia, from New Jersey, was Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, in April and their jobs. Today reminds us of assigned to the unit. He was injured, of this year I was in Italy. I had just how much we have to be thankful and he refused to go home; said, no, he stopped at an American military ceme- for. tery about 15, 20 minutes outside of Mr. President, I yield the remainder wanted to stay with his unit, as did Florence. On a beautiful morning, the of the time we have to our friend from Specialist Harris. Both had flesh sun was shining on the graves of 5,000 North Dakota. wounds that could have caused them to Mr. DORGAN. The Senator from be removed from the theater. They American soldiers who left their Texas just inquired whether the Sen- said, no, they wanted to stay with their homes, left their families, and an- ator from Alabama might go next. I troops. That is the kind of character swered the call to serve their country understand I have 5 minutes remain- and courage we have out there today. and gave their lives during the Second ing; is that correct? It is a pleasure to see them. World War. Their final resting place is The PRESIDING OFFICER. Six and a I also visited PFC Chris Busby from now a cemetery, a beautifully kept half minutes. Valley Head, AL, a town of 600. He was military cemetery maintained by the Mr. DORGAN. I would be happy to injured in Baghdad. He was in an Battlefield Monuments Commission of have the Senator from Alabama finish uparmored Humvee. That is important our country south of Florence. his remarks which are 5 minutes. I will because we have been trying to make I was thinking of that prose that take 5 minutes, and then we will finish. sure every uparmored Humvee possible says: When the night is full of knives The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- is there because it is much more resist- and the lightning is seen and the drums ator from Alabama. ant to attack than regular Humvees. are heard, the patriots are always Mr. SESSIONS. I thank the Senator His foot was out the door as he was there, ready to fight and ready to die, from North Dakota and appreciate his speaking and a mortar round hit. He if necessary, to defend their country. courtesy. I don’t think veterans are said had he not been in an uparmored Those patriots have given the ultimate going to be unhappy we are here work- Humvee, he may well have been far sacrifice all across the world in defense ing today. They might have been happy more seriously injured, if not killed. of freedom here. to see the scene yesterday when we His arm and leg which were outside the I was thinking this morning of a tele- should have been able to make progress door were both severely injured. phone call last week. I called a German on a number of things, and we had the Asking how he happened to join, he hospital in which Brandon Olson was assistant Democratic leader speaking 8 said: Well, it was after September 11. I resting. He had just been wounded in hours plus and reading from a book thought I ought to serve my country. Iraq. I called him in the hospital and I about cactus and rabbits. They might He is 20 years old. His father was called his mother. Brandon Olson’s be unhappy about that. there. His father served 7 years as an mother called him on Thursday. On

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.023 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14401 Friday he had his foot amputated. She the block or on the farm, who went all World War I veterans who were asking called him prior to surgery. When I across this world and have fought val- only for what they had been promised— talked to her, she told me her son was iantly for America’s freedom, and have their $500 bonus. In a sense, in a meta- under heavy medication. She could tell come home to live quietly among phor, I have been on my way to Wash- when she called him that he was in neighbors, never talking much about ington ever since to get my father’s pain and his voice was weak. their service to our country. bonus. I have not gotten it yet, so I am This mother told her son, lying in But that service is what has made still here and running for reelection. the German hospital: You don’t have to this the wonderful country it is. There When we honor the veterans today, talk. I just want to hear you breathe. is no place like it on Earth. There is no we ought to make note of the fact that It is a mother, concerned about her place quite as free as the United States the medical services that are available son, who left this small town of Hazen, of America, and that freedom has not to veterans are, realistically viewed, ND to answer the call of his country. been achieved without great sacrifice insufficient. We are about to take up, That is Brandon Olson. But it was also by young men and women. When Amer- in the course of the next several days, Brandon Ericson and Jason Frey, ica sends its sons and daughters to war, the appropriations bill for veterans. We young men and women, in this case when America asks its sons and daugh- are endeavoring to get an additional three North Dakotans, who lost their ters to fight, then we must resolve to $1.3 billion to help on veterans medical lives fighting in Iraq. do everything we can to make that a benefits. Finally, I believe, after some long pe- successful fight on behalf of America’s I have the honor to chair the Vet- riod, this country is reaching out to its freedom. erans Affairs Committee in the Senate. veterans and finally understanding its Today, we honor wonderful veterans Later today, I will join President Bush requirement, its obligation to say who have served this country for many at the White House for a bill-signing thank you—thank you for your sac- decades. ceremony, where we are creating addi- rifice and thank you for honoring our I yield the floor. tional veteran cemeteries across Amer- country. Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, today, ica, so that the families of veterans can This morning in the newspaper in our Veterans Day, we honor America’s vet- be near their departed loved ones and largest city, Fargo, ND, they pointed erans. It is to serve as 85 years of rec- can pay tribute without traveling long out that: ognition after armistice was declared distances. The planeload of civilian passengers on November 11, at 11 a.m., in 1918. We At the present time, families of vet- in a metropolitan airport terminal a pay tribute to our veterans today, but erans who live in southeastern Penn- couple of weeks back who stood and I suggest to my colleagues and fellow sylvania have to travel about 100 miles cheered in unison when asked by Americans we ought to pay more trib- to Indiantown Gap, to Annville, to pay United Airlines to give up their seats ute to veterans every day. respects, where veterans are now in- on an overbooked flight and take a The first veteran I knew was my fa- terred, buried, from the southeastern later flight so that soldiers headed ther, Harry Specter, who was a veteran part of the State. After a great deal of home on 14-day leaves from Iraq could of World War I. My father had come to effort, going back about 6 years, I am get there a few hours earlier. Every the United States as an immigrant, at paying tribute to former Congressman soldier got a seat on that airplane. the age of 18, in 1911. The Czar in con- John Fox, who worked with me ini- They all got on that flight because trol of Russia at the time wanted to tially to introduce the legislation that other passengers gave up their seats. send my father, among many others, to was finally passed by both Houses of That is what is happening in this coun- Siberia. My father chose instead to Congress. JIM GERLACH is the current try today as we face danger, difficulty, come to America. He literally walked sponsor in the House of Representa- and challenges as a nation in Iraq and across Europe, barely a ruble in his tives—Congressman GERLACH—and Afghanistan, and danger from terror- pocket, and traveled at the bottom of there will be a bill-signing ceremony ists around the world. Our country is the boat to the United States to make today where President Bush will affix a saying to those who wear our uniform: a new life for himself. He did not know signature and we will at least have Thank you. We owe you a great debt, at that time that he had a round-trip done that for veterans. one which we may never be able to ticket to France, not to Paris and the There are many issues pending to repay, but we recognize your sacrifice Folies Bergeres with the dancing girls, take care of America’s veterans. We and commitment to our country. but to the Argonne Forest where he are currently in the Veterans Affairs As I looked at those gravesites south was wounded in action. Committee reviewing a proposal by the of Florence, Italy, in that beautiful My father carried shrapnel in his legs Department of Veterans Affairs to cemetery on that April morning, I until the day he died. The U.S. Govern- alter the hospital accommodations thought of John McCrae’s wonderful ment promised the veterans of World across America. We are determined to poem ‘‘In Flanders Fields.’’ He wrote: War I a $500 bonus and, as has been the see to it that any changes which are In Flanders fields the poppies blow case so frequently with the U.S. Gov- made benefit rather than hurt vet- Between the crosses, row on row, ernment, the promise was broken. The erans. That mark our place; and in the sky veterans then mounted a march on Mr. President, on the subject of the The larks, still bravely singing, fly Washington in 1932 to seek redress, ex- proposals which are now pending, I am Scarce heard amid the guns below. ercising their constitutional right to very much concerned, as chairman of We are the Dead. Short day ago petition their Government, and also in the committee, for the entire Nation We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, petitioning their Government, to have about what will happen to many of the In Flanders fields. the Government fulfill the promise the facilities which are under review—fa- Take up our quarrel with the foe: Government had made to pay the vet- cilities in New York, facilities in Cali- To you from failing hands we throw erans a $500 bonus. fornia, facilities across the country, The torch; be yours to hold it high. Today, when there is a demonstra- and one very hotly contested facility in If ye break faith with us who die tion in Washington, the red carpet is Waco, TX. I am concerned about what We shall not sleep, though poppies grow rolled out. On that day, in 1932, the will happen in Pittsburgh where there In Flanders fields. cavalry was rolled out with drawn sa- are proposals to close Highland Drive. It reminds us again—especially bers, led by MAJ George C. Patton. In If that is done, there has to be an ade- today, on Veterans Day—all across command was the Chief of Staff of the quate accommodation so that the fa- America that the liberty we enjoy, the Army, Douglas MacArthur. There is a cilities are at least equal to, if not bet- freedom we take for granted was paid famous picture of General MacArthur, ter than what is currently available. for by the blood of patriots, and every with his aide de camp, MAJ Dwight Ei- There are concerns about Butler, PA, American family has been touched by senhower. On that day, veterans were Erie, PA, and across my State. A new those patriots who have given the ulti- killed. It is one of the blackest days in facility is due in Lebanon. mate sacrifice. Every American com- American history. So on this day when we are con- munity can and should recognize today That was the way the U.S. Govern- cerned about veterans, when we pay those who live up the block or down ment responded to the pleas of the honor to them, we ought to remember

VerDate jul 14 2003 03:40 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.026 S11PT1 S14402 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE November 11, 2003 that the veterans have created the cli- our future veterans by reimbursing Just how important and symbolic mate of freedom. When we pause and States and localities that continue to this day had become to the American remember the veterans on Armistice pay their government employees who people and, especially, our veterans, Day of 1918, remember that it is a con- are Guard and reservists—such as po- was demonstrated in the reaction to tinuum of veterans who have served liceman and firefighters—when they the Uniform Holiday bill of 1968. This America since the Revolutionary War. are called to active duty. This legisla- legislation was part of an overall plan My brother served in World War II, as tion will go a long way to help the fam- to make holidays part of a 3-day week- did my brother-in-law in the South Pa- ilies of these Guard men and women end, which would, in turn, encourage cific. I was in the service during the and reservists make ends meet. travel, recreational and cultural ac- Korean war and served stateside. In many cases, the local and State tivities, and stimulate greater indus- We now have many aging veterans governments are paying their salaries trial and commercial activity. In so from World War II and the Korean war and are falling behind. It seems to me doing, this legislation changed the ob- who need more accommodations. We that is the least we can do, is reim- servance of Veterans Day from Novem- have veterans from Vietnam and the burse for those funds. I hope others will ber 11 to the fourth Monday in October. gulf war and from Iraq. As we pay trib- join me in this legislation. By the way, Seldom in all of my 51 years in Con- ute to the veterans for what they have many of our States and counties and gress has Congress so misjudged the done for America, America should re- cities are already doing this, and their feelings of the American people. Amer- ciprocate and see to it that the needs budgets are hurting. ican veterans in particular, and Ameri- of veterans are adequately responded This is a war that was, in fact, voted cans in general, demanded that the ob- to. on here and executed by the President. servance of Veterans Day be restored Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I wish to Therefore, it seems to me the least we as November 11. It was all right to say a few words about Veterans Day, can do is reimburse local agencies who monkey around with Columbus Day, the day we honor millions who have are putting out the funding. we learned, and even the birthday of served in our Armed Forces. We give Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, November the father of our country. But we thanks to those who risk their lives 11, Veterans Day, is the day of rev- should have never touched November and, frankly, who are risking their erence for American veterans. It is the 11. lives as we speak. They have done it day of the year set aside to honor the According to the Veterans of Foreign and they are doing it now out of love of people who have defended our country, Wars, November 11 has a special mean- country. our way of life, and our freedom. It is ing to veterans of all wars and is a part We also mourn those who made the the day that allows us to pause to rec- of American history. Of all the days in ultimate sacrifice for our Nation. As ognize their patriotism, their love of the year, the one day which has the American casualties mount in Iraq, country, their willingness to serve, and most significance to those citizens who Veterans Day takes on a very special their willingness to sacrifice. made an extra sacrifice in the national meaning. Many in our country have Just last year, President Bush called interest by their service in the Armed lost loved ones in Iraq, and every day Veterans Day the day that we ‘‘show Forces is November 11. Many States simply continued to cel- we all pray for the safe return of our our gratitude to the veterans of the ebrate November 11 as Veterans Day. men and women in uniform. United States Armed Forces’’—a day Immediately, Members of Congress In my home State of California, we when ‘‘we honor veterans and we honor introduced legislation to redesignate have lost 73 from California or based in their families, and we offer the thanks November 11 as Veterans Day. My California. The burden is heavy for of a grateful Nation.’’ former colleague in this Chamber, Sen- their relatives—mothers, dads, chil- The very origins of this day are both ator Robert Dole, who himself was a dren, friends. Yet we know they went historic and symbolic. It began at the World War II veteran and was destined over there, in many cases, following 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th to become a majority leader of the their families in a rich military tradi- month—that is, 11/11/11—of 1918 when Senate and a nominee of the Repub- tion and, in some cases, because they the allied powers signed a cease-fire lican Party for Vice President and wanted to stand up and be counted for agreement with the central powers, President, proposed such legislation. their country. thus bringing to an end the 4-year He called November 11 a ‘‘legal holiday They have courage and dignity. It is bloody nightmare known as World War that provides a unique and fitting day our responsibility to only send them I. of recognition for our American vet- into harm’s way when we know what The next year, the United States set erans.’’ It is the day, Senator Dole de- we are doing; to only send them into aside November 11 as Armistice Day to clared, when the Nation pays ‘‘tribute harm’s way when we have a plan; to remember and honor the sacrifices that and homage to the men and women only send them into harm’s way when men and women made during World who have given so much in their quest we have an exit strategy, and these are War I. for world peace and freedom.’’ issues we will continue to work on be- In 1926, a congressional resolution of- By 1975, 42 States, including my own cause some of us, I am afraid, do not ficially named November 11 Armistice State of West Virginia, had returned to see that plan and do not see that exit Day. Twelve years later, in 1938, Con- the practice of celebrating Veterans strategy. gress made Armistice Day a national Day on November 11. In that year, Con- I wish to say on a personal note that holiday. gress approved legislation to return the November 11 is also my birthday. I say In 1954, following World War II and annual observance of Veterans Day to that because as a child, I was so proud the Korean war, Congress made Novem- November 11. President Gerald R. Ford I was born on what was called Armi- ber 11 a day to honor veterans of all signed the bill, stating: stice Day because Armistice Day re- wars, and therefore changed the name It has become apparent that the com- flected a day of peace, the end of a war, of this most important day to Veterans memoration of this day on November 11 is a the end of the war to end all wars, Day. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, matter of historic and patriotic significance which World War I was known as. Un- the President of the United States at to a great many of our citizens. It is a prac- fortunately, it wasn’t to be. There were the time, asked Americans to use this tice deeply and firmly rooted in our customs more wars. In 1954, Congress changed day to ‘‘remember the sacrifices of all and traditions. the name of Armistice Day to Veterans those who fought so valiantly on the More recently, when legislative ideas Day to pay homage to all of our vet- seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, were circulating through Congress to erans. to preserve our heritage of freedom.’’ bolster voter participation in Federal I regret I am not able to spend today In the first Presidential ‘‘Veterans Day elections, at least one proposal cen- with veterans in my State. I really had Proclamation,’’ President Eisenhower tered on designating Veterans Day as wanted to do that, but I do appreciate proclaimed: the national election day. In response this opportunity to pay tribute to It is my earnest hope that all veterans, to that proposal, my office was flooded them on the floor of the Senate. their organizations, and the entire citizenry with phone calls from veterans, saying: One more point on veterans. Earlier will join hands to insure proper and wide- ‘‘Please don’t take away our special today I introduced legislation to help spread observance of this day. day.’’

VerDate jul 14 2003 02:02 Nov 12, 2003 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0637 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G11NO6.035 S11PT1 November 11, 2003 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S14403 Mr. President, November 11 is their utes under the control of the Senator training camps within a few miles of special day. It is for this reason that from Pennsylvania, Mr. SPECTER. Damascus. during the years in which it was my Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, there While all of these matters are sub- privilege to serve as the majority lead- is before the Senate the so-called Syr- jected to controversy, and there are er of the U.S. Senate, I was always de- ian Accountability Act, which imposes disputes by the Syrian Government, I termined that this legislative body sanctions on Syria. It recites a long believe the balance of the evidence sup- would not be in session on this most list of circumstances where the Syrians ports the conclusion that those were important and symbolic date. I always have not taken sufficient action to training camps. wanted to make sure that my col- fight terrorism, and then it calls for I believe it is important that the U.S. leagues and I had the opportunity to Syria to take corrective action, and in Government continues in its efforts to take part in the many ceremonies that the absence of that corrective action, negotiate with Syria to try to improve take place on this day in honor of the authorizes the imposition of economic the situation, and that we ought to be courage and the sacrifice of America’s sanctions, and it leaves with the Presi- mindful that there are opportunities to veterans. I always wanted to make sure dent of the United States the authority have frank discussions with the Syrian that this Chamber paid proper homage to waive those sanctions if it is in the officials which have led to some bene- to the men and women to whom we owe national interest. ficial results and which ought to be so much. Sanctions are imposed by Congress pursued. Writing about the thousands of sol- with some frequency. At first blush, I urge my colleagues in the U.S. Con- diers who lost their lives during the this appears to be a straightforward af- gress, pursuant to our duties, for exam- bloody battle at Antietam, Civil War firmative vote, but I believe the matter ple, on the Foreign Operations Sub- historian, Bruce Catton, pointed out is more complicated than that, and I committee on which I serve, or on the that these men did not die for a few have come to that view after having Foreign Relations Committee, to trav- feet of a cornfield or a rocky hill; they traveled to Syria almost every year el to Syria to engage the Syrian lead- died that this country might be per- since 1984, and after having had consid- ers because I think it can be produc- mitted to go on, and that it might be erable contact with the Syrian Govern- tive. I make reference to my own expe- permitted to fulfill the great hope of ment. After considering the matter at rience in that regard. our Founding Fathers. some length, I have decided that I will I made my first trip to Syria in 1984. So may it be said of most every per- vote in favor of the Syrian Account- As I have said, I have been to Syria al- son who has worn our Nation’s uni- ability Act because the problems of most every year since. I first met form. These people served and they sac- terrorism are so serious and because I President Bashar al-Assad in January rificed to permit this country to go on believe that Syria needs to do more. of 1988 and found him to be willing to to fulfill the great hope of our Found- The bill itself has a long recitation of listen and willing to have a dialog. My ing Fathers. And it is proper and it is background circumstances, but the conversation at that time with Presi- right that we take one day a year to events today in Iraq, where our fight- dent Assad lasted for some 4 hours and pay our most profound respect to the ing men and women are being subjected 35 minutes, talking about a wide range men and the women who have worn our to terrorist attacks, casualties and fa- of issues—the Israeli-Syrian relations, Nation’s uniform, and to thank them. talities, and where the people of Iraq the Iran-Iraq war, which was still in I thank them and we here in the Sen- are being subjected as victims of ter- progress at that time, U.S.-Syrian rela- ate thank them on this day for what rorism, I believe it is a fair demand tions, the situations with the Jews in they have given, for what they have that more be done. That would include Syria. At that time, working with then sacrificed, and for their love of coun- more by Syria. Congressman Solarz, I urged President try. There are, according to reliable re- Assad to allow the Jews to have free Mr. President, I yield the floor. ports, official statements of the U.S. immigration out of Syria. There were Government that terrorists are infil- many Jewish women in Syria who f trating into Syria, coming from Syria could not find husbands of the Jewish CONCLUSION OF MORNING into Iraq. More has to be done on that faith. President Assad said to me, in BUSINESS subject. one of our meetings, he would release It has to be noted that Syria has re- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning any Jewish woman where somebody sponded with a number of affirmative business is now closed. came from the United States—there actions to be of assistance to the The Senator from Pennsylvania is were large Syrian-Jewish groupings in United States in our war on terrorists. recognized. the United States—to come to claim a The officials of the State Department bride, and anyone who wanted to marry f have acknowledged that after Sep- a woman in Syria who was Jewish, if a SYRIA ACCOUNTABILITY ACT tember 11, 2001, that information was suitor came, the woman would be re- provided by Syria on al-Qaeda, which leased. Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, on be- saved U.S. lives. I reported back to a number of Jew- half of the majority leader, I call up It is also to be acknowledged there ish-Syrian enclaves in the United the Syria Accountability Act. has been some improvement on the States. Nothing much happened about The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Syrian-Iraqi border, but clearly not that. Finally, a few years later, Presi- clerk will state the bill by title. enough. There were reports just this dent Assad granted free rights for the The assistant legislative clerk read morning from the State Department Jews to leave Syria at their choice, as follows: about the porous Syrian border and something he had resisted, but some- A bill (H.R. 1828) to halt Syrian support for terrorists coming into Iraq, again ex- thing which he finally was persuaded terrorism, end its occupation of Lebanon, posing U.S. personnel and the Iraqis to do. stop its development of weapons of mass de- struction, cease its illegal importation of themselves to terrorist attack. During the course of the discussions I Iraqi oil and illegal shipments of weapons It ought to be noted that Syria did had with President Assad, I urged him and other military items to Iraq, and by so join in the unanimous resolution, U.N. to participate in discussions with doing hold Syria accountable for the serious Resolution 1511, and that when Sec- Israel. At first, he took the position he international security problems it has retary of State Powell traveled to would not be a party to any discussions caused in the Middle East, and for other pur- Syria in April of 2002, there was some which were sponsored just by the poses. helpful action taken by the Syrian United States but only if they were The PRESIDING OFFICER. The time Government on the southern border of sponsored by all five of the permanent for debate is limited to 90 minutes, Lebanon. But when Secretary of State members of the Security Council. with 30 minutes under the control of Powell went to Syria in May of 2003 Finally, President Assad made a the Senator from Indiana, Mr. LUGAR, and urged the Syrian Government to change and sent representatives to Ma- or his designee, 30 minutes under the oust the terrorists from Damascus, drid in 1991 to participate in those dis- control of the Senator from Delaware, that request was not acted upon. Re- cussions. When Prime Minister Mr. BIDEN, or his designee, and 30 min- cently, Israel moved against terrorist Netanyahu was elected in 1996, Prime

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