--Randy's Roundup --

A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer

The Middle East and Foreign Aid

Last week—more than two weeks after our Ambassador and three other Americans were murdered in Benghazi, Libya—Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta characterized the violence as a terrorist attack.  I think it’s deplorable that it took the Obama Administration so long to acknowledge the truth about the tragedy in Libya where four Americans lost their lives.  In these last few weeks, violence and hatred directed at Americans has been rampant in parts of the Middle East, particularly in Egypt and Libya. The U.S. sends billions of dollars in foreign aid to these countries, and I believe we need to re-evaluate our relationships with them. Is our aid helping achieve strategic goals? Is it improving our security? As we consider these questions, I’ll continue to press for answers to ensure all our money is being spent wisely as we try and stop the growth of our debt.

Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15th to October 15th, the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month.  This is a time for us to recognize the contributions that Hispanic and Latin Americans have made to the United States and to celebrate Hispanic heritage and culture. The United States has always been a “melting pot” of different cultures, languages and histories. One of the reasons our country is so great is because it provides an opportunity for immigrants to work hard and provide better lives for their families.

Texans are especially aware of Hispanic and Latin American influence and culture. This month, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating the diverse perspective Hispanic culture brings to our state and our country.

Military Academy Nominations

As a Member of Congress, I am proud to nominate outstanding young candidates from the 19th District of Texas to four U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare college-age Americans to be officers of the United States uniformed services. An excellent education at one of our service academies will broaden the horizons of any young American, and open the doors to many rewarding opportunities. If you or someone you know would be interested in applying to attend a service academy, please contact Mary Whistler in my Lubbock office for more information at (806) 763-1611. You can also download an application here.

Action Item of the Week - National Honor Flight to Honor WWII Veterans in DC This Week

This week, I will give a tour of the House Floor to World War II veterans who will be in Washington, DC for the South Plains Honor Flight. Every year, the National Honor Flight organization sends World War II veterans from around the country to Washington, DC to experience the WWII Memorial, which was built to honor their service and sacrifice.  Last year, I had the privilege of meeting veterans from the Abilene area.  This year, we will pay tribute to men and women from the South Plains.  As a nation, we will never forget all that these brave men and women did to preserve freedom and democracy.  I am privileged to be able to visit with members of the “Greatest Generation,” and look forward to our meeting on Thursday.