Cass Ballenger: “Upon assuming control of the entire nation of Vietnam, the Communist Government imprisoned many of its citizens in…”

“Upon assuming control of the entire nation of Vietnam, the Communist Government imprisoned many of its citizens in reeducation camps where they endured brutal conditions. Many died due to abuse and deprivation. Most of those placed in these camps were sent there because of their service to the governments of South Vietnam and the United States during the Vietnam War. In 1979, the Orderly Departure Program was created to provide a way for the immediate relatives of those who spent 3 years or more in those camps, and the widows of those who died in the camps to immigrate to the United States. However, when the deadline to register for the program expired, many qualified beneficiaries were left behind. The bill of the gentleman from Virginia, H.R. 1840, will offer these individuals an opportunity to be considered for admission under the Ordinary Departure Program through the fiscal year 2003. I support the bill. It is a fair and honorable way to help the families of the brave men and women who endured great suffering for their service to the cause of democracy.”