Elijah Cummings: “just a few days ago we commemorated the fourth anniversary of the United States' invasion of Iraq. Today we pause, and…”

“just a few days ago we commemorated the fourth anniversary of the United States' invasion of Iraq. Today we pause, and we voted for the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health, and Iraq Accountability Act, and we took a pivotal step in responding to the mandate issued by the American people. I have opposed this war from the very beginning; however, I voted for this legislation because I am realistic about our circumstances. As long as our brave men and women are serving in this country, we have a moral obligation to ensure that they are trained, equipped and rested when they go into battle. Supporting this measure was not easy, especially in light of the fact that a young man from Baltimore, Kendall Waters-Bey, who lived only a few blocks from me, was the first to die in the Iraq war. However, after many discussions with my constituents and much contemplation, I strongly believe that H.R. 1591 was in the best interest of our brave men and women, the people of Iraq, and the people of these great United States. Although I am opposed to the war, I have a responsibility to vote my conscience and a responsibility to help protect the servicemembers while they are risking their lives in Iraq. However, it is more important that we take care of those wounded warriors when they return home. When they have risked so much, we much respect them enough to provide the quality of medical treatment that they deserve.…”