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Sixty-three years ago last month, our nation woke up to hear that one of the great battles of our time had begun. Operation Overlord, the landing of 150,000 allied troops on the coast of Normandy, would ultimately succeed. However the war was far from over. On July 4th, 1944, one U.S. Division gained only 200 yards while suffering almost 1,400 casualties. I am reminded that we only succeeded, because of the courage and dedication of those men and women who fought that war.
This week, American forces are stationed around the world. They are engaged in training Iraqi police and army units, hunting down terrorists, working with local tribal leaders to bring peace to their villages. They are doing a terrific job under difficult of circumstances.
In Congress, I have voted to raise their pay. There is no doubt they deserve it and that is why I have voted for a permanent pay increase for all of the brave men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces every year that I have been in Congress.
Our commitment though does not end there. Once they return to our shores as heroes and veterans we have a duty to make sure they get the care they were promised. Since 2001, funding for veterans healthcare has increased by almost 80 percent with my support.
As we celebrate our nation’s birthday this week, we must never forget those brave men and women who are serving their country. We have a commitment to them now and when they return. It is a commitment that I intend to keep.
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