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Floor Speech
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Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I rise this evening to recognize and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the creation of the U.S. Army. I would yield to the Senator from Rhode Island, my colleague but the cochair of the Senate Army Caucus, Senator Reed.
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Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I thank the Senator from Rhode Island, my colleague and friend Senator Reed, for cochairing. I am the new one to this duo, and I consider it a privilege as a U.S. Senator to serve side by side with Senator Reed as we work together to promote and support the U.S. Army and those who serve in it.
I also would highlight and honor my respect of Senator Jim Inhofe, the Senator of Oklahoma whom I replaced in this capacity after his long tenure with Senator Reed in serving in this capacity to support and defend the Army of the United States.
As Senator Reed said, 250 years ago--that is the birthday we are celebrating--on June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress authorized what would become the most capable and lethal ground force the world has ever known--the U.S. Army. The creation of General George Washington's Army coincides with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
Since our Nation gained its independence, our Army has faithfully defended our freedoms. The Warrior Ethos of the Army states:
I will always place the mission first.
This is a calling that American soldiers have answered time and time again without regard to their personal safety, security, or comfort.
My State of Kansas is home to Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division, Fort Leavenworth, as well as the Kansas Army National Guard. The men and women who serve in these bases are some of the finest individuals I have ever met, living their lives in accordance with the mission on the Army flag: ``This We'll Defend.'' This short statement is a commitment to defending this Nation, all Americans, and the values we hold dear.
The embodiment of what it means to be an American soldier is symbolized in the Army's values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Over the years, the servicemembers of the Army have lived up to these ideals, putting their country and fellow citizens above themselves. No matter how daunting the conflict, American soldiers will always carry out the mission entrusted to them. Today, we recognize this valor and celebrate the patriotism that motivates these brave men and women who dedicate their lives to defend the land that they and we love.
The U.S. Army is the largest branch of the U.S. military, with nearly 450,000 Active-Duty personnel and nearly 500,000 in the Reserves.
As we mark the 250 years of the U.S. Army, we express our gratitude to these servicemembers and their loved ones who support them. For two and a half centuries--250 years--the American soldiers have stood strong in the face of conflict.
I am committed to continue supporting our Army so that it remains the strongest lethal force in the world for another 250 years. I hope my colleagues will join me and Senator Reed in honoring our soldiers and supporting a resolution to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
Today, in this effort, we are reminded to say to those who serve, have served, and will serve, we tell them--those who served and have served and will serve in the U.S. Army--we say to them that we respect you; we love you; we thank you for your service.
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