Sheila Jackson Lee: “This bill, modest in funding--and I would like to emphasize that before I even speak about its importance--modest in…”

“This bill, modest in funding--and I would like to emphasize that before I even speak about its importance--modest in funding, $5 million per year between 2011, I believe, and 2015, takes an important step toward the value that we place on our service men and women. One, we thank them while they are serving, and we have made a commitment to thank them when their service is finished. My State happens to be unique in having the highest percentage of returning soldiers, in particular from Iraq and Afghanistan, in the State of Texas. In addition, many of you are aware of many of the bases in our State, but, as well, you are aware of the horrific tragedy that occurred at Fort Hood just a few months ago and, of course, coming up on its first-year recognition. In that instance, many were lost, but some were injured; and the idea of using soldiers who have been trained by the military to return home for first responder utilization is a brilliant idea and one that is long in coming.”