| Washington, D.C.--U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), a Democratic Chief Deputy Whip, released the following statement today in honor of Veterans Day.
"A week ago, Americans made a crucial decision, electing a new leader to guide us during difficult times. President-elect Obama will make restoring our military and protecting our veterans a top priority. But, whatever our political party, we are all Americans and we are united in keeping our nation strong and protecting the rights of those who risk their lives to keep us safe. This Veterans Day, we take time to pay tribute to our nations' veterans, who have done so much to protect the democratic ideals that make our nation great. We also recognize the troops who are serving today in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other parts of the world, who continue to put their lives on the line for the security of our nation. Today, as we thank our veterans for their service in all wars, past and present, we must also recommit ourselves to providing all veterans with the benefits that they have earned and deserve. Generations of American men and women have, at great risk to themselves and their families, taken on the challenge of protecting our country. While serving, they face the threat of a hostile enemy; when they return home, our veterans too often find more trouble: gaps in health care services, limited educational assistance, problems finding employment and a lack of support for their families. Too many of our brave military men and women return home to find that while they have been willing to serve their country, their country is not ready to serve them. As we celebrate today, we must also agree to stop underfunding veterans programs and instead make them a priority.
America's troops face hardship and danger because they believe in the promise of our country. When we send them to battle without the most up-to-date equipment, when we ask them to redeploy without adequate time between tours with their families, and when we are not fully prepared to meet their needs and provide benefits when they return, we do not live up to our promises. This Congress has made it a top priority to make sure veterans and their families receive the respect and services they have earned by serving our nation so valiantly. I will work to make sure that it continues to be a priority in the next and in future Congresses. Thank you, and happy Veterans Day." | |
