Cantwell Praises Pentagon Decision to Not Change 24-Month Deployment Policy for National Guard and Reserves

Cantwell Praises Pentagon Decision to Not Change 24-Month Deployment Policy for National Guard and Reserves

Sunday, Sec. of Defense Rumsfeld answers Cantwell's question about proposed changes in deployment policy on "Meet the Press"

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell praised the Department of Defense's decision to not change their deployment policy for National Guard and Reserves. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld announced the decision on NBC's "Meet the Press" this morning, saying that National Guard and Reserves would not be deployed for longer than 24 months, cumulatively.

"I hope today's comments provide certainty for our National Guard and Reserve troops and comfort for their families," Cantwell stated.

"It's important to keep our word to Guard and Reservists in exchange for the many sacrifices they make on behalf of our country," she added.

Cantwell sent a letter to Secretary Rumsfeld on January 11, 2005, regarding her concerns about recent news reports of the Pentagon's plans to change their deployment policy so the Department of Defense can call up reserves more frequently and for longer periods of time. Cantwell asked for clarification on the Department of Defense's plans, which Rumsfeld addressed today on "Meet the Press."

Cantwell hopes to hear receive official assurances in writing from the Pentagon soon.

http://cantwell.senate.gov/news/releases/2005_02_06_deployment.html