Political Quotes

“I have learned within the last 24 hours that all of the Chinook helicopters in the 106th unit, of which Mr. Slavenas was a part, consist of seven helicopters from the Illinois National Guard and seven from the Iowa National Guard. All of these helicopters do not have the aircraft survivability equipment required to protect them from the very threat that brought down this helicopter on Sunday. This is a recurring and troublesome issue. We have heard time and again about National Guard forces which are activated and then shortchanged when it comes to the best equipment. We expect the most updated equipment to be given to the units that are in the fight. We understand that Active Duty troops must receive what they need. But consider where we are in the war in Iraq. It is supposedly a complete and seamless integration of National Guard, Reserves, and Active Duty forces. We expect the National Guard, under these circumstances, to receive the necessary upgrades in the war theater. These Chinook helicopters are supposed to be equipped with one or more protective systems, such as the ALQ-156 system, to detect surface-to-air missiles, along with an automatic flare dispenser as a countermeasure. They are also supposed to be equipped with seat armor to protect the pilot and crew.”