Political Quotes

“I learned that one member of the 133rd Engineering Battalion from my State of Maine was killed and four were seriously wounded when serving their country in Iraq. My thoughts and prayers are with these soldiers and their families. Unfortunately, sacrifices like these make it very clear that the Guard and Reserve face the same grave dangers as other military personnel. They are an essential part of our total fighting force, and they deserve the best our country can give. I believe this bill before us today is a good first step in the right direction, but there is still so much more we should be doing for our soldiers and their families. Instead of simply allowing them to pull out their retirement money early to help pay the bills, we should provide better pay and assistance for their families. Indeed, they face the same problems when they return home as other workers. Anyone who has been unemployed for an extended period should have the same ability to use their retirement funds to make ends meet. Even more important, Reservists must return home to a country that can provide good jobs for them so they can care for their families. That is the best way to honor our veterans.”