Darrell Issa: “Of the several postal namings that we are voting on today, almost all of them are honoring members of the military and…”

“Of the several postal namings that we are voting on today, almost all of them are honoring members of the military and, disproportionately, members who have given their lives in service to their country, and it is fitting that we should do that. However, H.R. 5468 seeks something very different. Currently called the ``Mainside'' Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Post Office, it is not named for anyone. Camp Pendleton has produced more Medal of Honor recipients--most of them posthumously--through World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the various gulf wars. Even as we speak today, marines are engaged now in Iraq again, having completed their missions in Afghanistan, and, undoubtedly, the valor they show will someday result in additional Medal of Honor recipients. It is impossible to name the post office at Camp Pendleton after one marine, no matter how great, or after a few marines, even if they died together in battle--therefore, the unusual naming here at Camp Pendleton, a base that opened in 1942 and that, today, is the largest base of marines anywhere in the world. Over 42,000 marines and corpsmen call Camp Pendleton their home when they are not away from home. I am humbled and honored to be able to represent Camp Pendleton for my entire nearly 14 years of service in the Congress. As a former Army officer, I have learned a great deal about marines. I have learned even more about their valor.…”