Nydia M. Velazquez: “I want to thank the ranking Democrat for his great leadership and allowing me to make this amendment in order as part of…”

“I want to thank the ranking Democrat for his great leadership and allowing me to make this amendment in order as part of the en bloc. Mr. Chairman, it is incumbent on all of us to ensure that the brave men and women who serve our Nation abroad are treated with dignity. Sadly, in recent years, we have come to realize that too many of these young people endure abuse--not at the hands of the enemy, but from within their own unit. Last year, an Army private from my district, Danny Chen, lost his life after being hazed. Danny's loss has been a profound tragedy for his family, the Chinatown community, and all of New York. While many steps should have been taken to save Danny, it is almost certain if he had transferred to another unit, he would be with us today. {time} 1100 The amendment I am offering will ensure that each branch of the military has a process allowing hazing victims to swiftly transfer to another unit. This commonsense policy will prevent future tragedies. Mr. Chairman, all of us owe a great debt to the members of our military who risk so much for our Nation's freedom. Mr. McKEON. I continue to reserve the balance of my time.”