Political Quotes

“I believe from reading this report--not in the words of the Senator from Massachusetts that no one was trying to stop these tragic situations--that it was generally a positive command climate. There were some isolated instances of harassment, sexual in nature. I concede that is in the Record. But the total quantity of these incidents, in my judgment, was not indicative of a breakdown in the command responsibilities under General Clark. General Clark, as I said, came to the committee on two occasions and subjected himself quite willingly--indeed, under oath; I put him under oath at the second hearing--and he responded to the cross-examination, much of which the distinguished colleague from Massachusetts has raised today. In conclusion, he has an extremely impressive record of military service stretching back to 1970. Much of that has been covered by my colleague from Kentucky. Mind you, Fort Campbell is an installation that can at times host a daily population of 24,000 military personnel and over 200 company-sized units. In July of 1999, this brutal murder was committed at Fort Campbell by an intoxicated 18-year-old soldier who used frightful force against PFC Barry Winchell. This resulted in his death, allegedly while he was sleeping. No one underestimates the seriousness of this crime. Senator Levin and I met in May of this year with the parents of Private First Class Winchell. Like General Clark, we extended our sympathy and sorrow for their loss.”