David Loebsack: “The Post-9/11 GI Bill is an expression of our Nation's gratitude to those who have served our country since the 9/11…”

“The Post-9/11 GI Bill is an expression of our Nation's gratitude to those who have served our country since the 9/11 attacks. As a former college professor, I know firsthand the impact a post-secondary education can have. It opens doors and it broadens opportunities, and it is critical to the strength of our military and the future of our economy. The dual role of the National Guard in our homeland and national security is unique, and it has only increased since the 9/11 attacks. The National Guard is no longer a strategic reserve. It is an operational one. These soldiers and airmen secure our airspace, respond to disasters, protect our borders, and deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan. Yet the Post-9/11 GI Bill did not recognize this dual role. It counts only service overseas and overlooked the role the National Guard plays in federally funded homeland security missions. That is why I introduced the National Guard Education Equality Act, which has over 100 bipartisan cosponsors and has been endorsed by a number of veterans service organizations.”