Walter B. Jones: “Approximately 11,000 of our military families are on food stamps. Let me repeat that. Eleven thousand military families…”

“Approximately 11,000 of our military families are on food stamps. Let me repeat that. Eleven thousand military families are on food stamps. The men and women who volunteer to protect and defend the citizens and freedoms of this Nation are struggling to make ends meet. Our troops accept the most awesome responsibility, yet they are so severely underpaid that many must take on second jobs. Others are forced to accept food stamps in order to feed their families. Still many others out of pride refuse government assistance and their families suffer silently. Mr. Speaker, I find this absolutely inexcusable. These men and women are willing to defend and die for this Nation and yet our troops are paid so little that thousands can barely afford to feed their own families. Unfortunately, the problems that face our military extend well beyond pay levels. Today's average soldier, sailor, airman and marine is both overworked and undercompensated, and it is not surprising.”