Straight Talk With Sam - Supporting Our Troops

Volume 4, Issue 42, October 18, 2004

STRAIGHT TALK WITH SAM
Supporting Our Troops

In this time of war I think it is important that lawmakers give our troops the tools necessary to win the war on terrorism. Congress this year has done that by passing bills that not only give our troops money to fight the war on terror today, but by looking toward the future needs of our Armed Forces.

In addition to buying the necessary equipment such as Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Blackhawk Helicopters and ammunition, Congress has allocated more money for National Guard units. Over $235 million was dedicated to bringing our heroic National Guard units the combat and tactical vehicles, helicopters and other equipment needed to be a fully functional unit.

Congress also acted to support our future needs on an ever-changing battlefield. Technologies like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, the Joint Strike Fighter and missile defense programs will be a part of our future security needs. As the world changes, so must our Armed Forces.

We took care of basic soldier needs such as housing and pay. We fully funded a 3.5% military pay raise and increased the allowance for housing. I think its' important that troops fighting for our freedom overseas do not have to scrape together money for basic necessities at home.

This is a global war and by fighting in Baghdad, we can avoid fighting this war on our soil. I support our troops, just as you do, and I will make sure that they have the tools they need to complete their mission.