On the recordOctober 25, 2011
Tonight, back home in south Mississippi, the Coast Chamber is hosting the 33rd annual Salute to the Military. I deeply regret not being able to attend tonight to recognize our Nation's finest. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, a marine veteran, and the only Member of Congress who still actively serves as a noncommissioned officer in the Mississippi Army National Guard, I know firsthand how vital their work is to our Nation's defense. As I serve, I am always mindful of their service and sacrifice, as well as their families'. Nowhere are so few asked to sacrifice so much for so many. So I ask this Congress and the American people to share in their sacrifice and say ``no'' to any more defense spending cuts. To date, more than half of the cuts in spending have come from defense. It is morally irresponsible to continue trying to balance the budget on the backs of our men and women in uniform. As a nation, our economic and personal security depends on a strong, capable, well- equipped, and well-trained military. So I want to salute all those who have served and are currently serving. Thank you for making America safe and exceptional. ____________________





