Max Baucus: “I wish to talk about one tribute we can make to the brave men and women who have put their lives on the line and…”

“I wish to talk about one tribute we can make to the brave men and women who have put their lives on the line and returned home wounded. We need to ensure that those who have sacrificed for our country receive their due benefits. We need to see that they are taken care of when they return home. As of July 2006, nearly 20,000 members of our Armed Forces have been wounded in action in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Many of these soldiers are now permanently disabled. Of these brave soldiers who have been wounded, nearly 5,000 are members of the National Guard and Reserves. Our National Guard and Reserves are carrying a huge burden in our current conflicts abroad. Ninety-five percent of America's National Guard combat battalions and special operations have been mobilized since September 11, 2001. Many of these wounded soldiers come from rural States such as my home State of Montana. In Montana, we have the highest proportion of veterans per capita of any State. According to the most recent census, veterans account for nearly one out of every six people in Montana. And veterans and families of veterans constitute a significant portion of the population in rural States throughout the country. When not deployed, many National Guardsmen and reservists in my home State support their families with second and even third jobs.…”