Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time for our Nation to raise awareness about the persistent scourge of suicide. Tens of thousands of Americans die each year purposefully by their own actions. They are our neighbors and our friends, our sons and our daughters, and too often they are the men and women who have served our country honorably in the United States military. An estimated 22 veterans commit suicide every day in our country. That is one life lost every 65 minutes. One year ago, we came together in this Chamber during a special bipartisan order to send a clear message that this epidemic of veteran suicide must end. Now, 1 year later, the fight isn't over and more work needs to be done. Tonight we demonstrate our ongoing support for the individuals, organizations, and agencies devoted to preventing the epidemic of veteran suicide, and we challenge the VA, the Department of Defense, and our fellow lawmakers to do more. We are failing in our obligation to do right by those who have served so honorably. Finally, we send a message to military families who have experienced this tragedy: Your family's loss is not forgotten. We will work to stop this epidemic. We work for the memory of your loved ones. Mr. Speaker, I yield to my friend and colleague from Florida, Representative Yoho.”