Political Quotes

“I thank the gentlewoman from Florida for affording me this time. I am very pleased to join with all of my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus to honor the veterans, African-American, Black veterans, who have served this country so honorably. We could talk all night about the contributions that have been made, the sacrifices that have been made, and we take this time to point out not only the contributions but individuals who have played an important role as Blacks in the military. First, I would share that, in 1994, I introduced legislation, H.R. 3013, to create the Center for Women's Veterans. That bill became law under Sonny Montgomery, who was the chair of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs at that time. I think that overall bill was the Veterans' Benefits Improvements Act. I am very pleased that that center has paid attention to some of the concerns that we have had about the treatment of women, Black women in particular. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize someone from my district, an extraordinary woman who happens to be a veteran. Patricia Jackson-Kelley is a military veteran of the United States Air Force and United States Army and Navy Reserves, having served our Nation collectively for 26 years, where she rose to the top rank of lieutenant colonel after serving honorably on both Active Duty and in the Reserves.…”