Charles Skelton: “the chairman, Chairman Hunter, flatters me. It is rather interesting, and it is important for me to point out that my…”

“the chairman, Chairman Hunter, flatters me. It is rather interesting, and it is important for me to point out that my late wife, Susie Skelton, went to All Saints High School, which is in the middle of the Vicksburg, Mississippi battlefield. And because of that, that has special meaning to our family and, Mr. Speaker, I am most appreciative. This is an excellent bill. It includes language regarding detainees, pay raises, and medical help. I hope that this does not set a pattern on process. I realize that there was a time problem with the Senate passing the bill so late, and with the Thanksgiving recess coming up. But I hope that the panels will be able to meet fully, explore each of the issues, and as we are not able to do that as nearly as fully as we should, we had to rely on our wonderful staff, and they did an outstanding job. Toward the last, Mr. Speaker, this was a rather torturous procedural effort. We jumped two major hurdles toward the end; and at the end of the day, the bill is an excellent one for those in uniform and for those who defend our country. So with that I thank all of the members of the committee. Chairman Hunter, thank you especially for your help, your leadership, and to each member on our committee for the tremendous work that they did. Hours and days went into this. And a special thanks, Mr. Chairman, for this book on Vicksburg.”