Issa/Cummings Joint Statement Regarding Media Reports of Mishandled Remains

Statement

Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) and Ranking Member Elijah Cummings today released the following statement regarding media reports of Department of Defense mishandling of remains of U.S. soldiers and the disposal of some remains in a Virginia landfill:

"The allegations in today's Washington Post story--that the remains of U.S. soldiers were mishandled and found their ultimate resting place in a landfill--are appalling. We owe a debt of gratitude to those who forced this issue into the light of day. Addressing this issue will require full cooperation and transparency from the Department of Defense as the Committee continues its investigation into the policies and procedures that led to this situation, as well as the Department's practices in handling remains at all facilities since January 2002.

"The Tomb of the Unknown is one of our nation's most hallowed places, guarded around the clock--regardless of weather--every day of the year. The soldiers who stand vigil symbolize our nation's respect for those who have fallen in battle and our solemn obligation to leave no fallen comrade behind. We owe this spirit of reverence not only to the unknown service members entombed at Arlington, but to all those who wear the uniform to protect and defend our freedom.

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