Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment, which would provide deserved recognition for the National Guard and Reserve retirees. The National Guard and Reserve component retirees who have served less than 180 straight days of Active Duty are not able to call themselves veterans due to the legal definition. This is despite their 20 years of service to their State and their Nation and despite their service in emergencies like floods, fires, and other natural disasters. The amendment allows these National Guard and Reserve retirees to say ``I am a veteran,'' the ability to get a license plate showing their veteran status and to go to the store and buy a hat that says ``Proud Veteran'' without feeling guilty. It is simply a way to honor the men and women who have served in and retired from our National Guard and Reserve forces. It has no cost, and it already passed the House last by a vote of 407-0. I urge my colleagues to support the amendment. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.”