Olympia Snowe: “America's finest citizens and the world's greatest military men and women continue to put themselves in harm's way in…”

“America's finest citizens and the world's greatest military men and women continue to put themselves in harm's way in support of the establishment of freedom and democracy in Iraq and Afghanistan. They also are helping millions throughout South and Southeast Asia to recover from the devastating tsunami that destroyed so many lives. These great Americans have made a commitment to serve this country come what may. They are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice with the knowledge that in doing so, they are defending the security of our Nation and advancing the very ideals upon which this great country was founded. Just as these men and women have agreed to make this commitment, so too must we commit to supporting the families of these soldiers who give the 'last full measure of devotion' for us. It is the very least we can do to provide a greater degree of peace of mind to our service men and women, who should always know and trust that a grateful America will stand with and support their family members should tragedy strike.”