Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for the FY17 NDAA conference report. I want to first thank Chairman Thornberry for his dedication and continuous support for our troops and for his leadership during the conference committee process. I am proud to support this critical bill that truly hits home for my district and for our brave men and women in uniform across our great Nation. My district is the proud home of Fort Drum, and this bill provides for the ongoing combat operations where troops from the 10th Mountain Division continue to selflessly serve. It also fully supports our Navy's nuclear community, from operational capabilities, to nuclear training sites at Ballston Spa, New York. {time} 1100 One of the most important provisions is a full 2.1 percent pay raise for our troops--to our Nation's dedicated and brave servicemembers who risk it all to provide us with protection and security--and to their loved ones who are anxiously awaiting their return. This bill also prevents a possible readiness crisis by investing in our military personnel and preserving their expertise. In order for our military to continue its superiority in any battlefield and through countless combat deployments, this bill ends the misguided drawdown of troops. It ensures we have the land forces end strength to face the world's challenges and protect our Nation. Every day I am grateful and humbled to represent so many brave men and women in uniform and their resilient loved ones.…”