On the recordMay 24, 2011
I thank the gentleman for yielding. I first want to begin by thanking Chairman McKeon and Ranking Member Smith, as well as the chairman of my subcommittee, the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, Chairman Mac Thornberry, for putting forward a bill that truly supports our men and women in combat, enhances our national security, and is in keeping with the true bipartisan history of the House Armed Services Committee. While I don't agree with every provision in the bill, I am proud that both parties worked together to reach compromises on many measures that support our national defense. As the ranking member of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee, I am especially pleased to support our Armed Forces. You need global reach around the world and in cyberspace. I have also been a long-time supporter of our Special Operations Forces, and the incredible raid on the Osama bin Laden compound several weeks ago is a true testament to their patriotism, their training, their strength and dedication, and I commend them for their incredible work. These brave men and women are a critically unique asset to our national security, and this bill affirms our commitment to supporting their efforts.…





