Collins Expresses Disapproval of Public Comments by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno

Statement

Congressman Doug Collins (GA-09)tonight issued the following statement expressing his strong disagreement with public comments made by United States Army Chief of Staff General Ray Odierno about the effectiveness of National Guard forces. Congressman Collins said:

"It is disheartening that the skill and dedication from our guardsmen and reservists that General Odierno has seen firsthand on the battlefield could be easily forgotten in the comfort of a Washington press conference."

Congressman Collins continued, "General Odierno, just like every active duty soldier, deserves respect and recognition for his unwavering and sacrificial service to our country--but so does every single member of our National Guard and Reserves. The American people must have the full confidence that every citizen who also calls him or herself a soldier is fully equipped, willing, and trusted to defend the United States whenever duty calls.

"This past weekend, I joined the rest of Elberton, Georgia as we welcomed the 1/214th Field Artillery Battalion home from Afghanistan. These outstanding Georgia Guardsmen, known as the Granite Battalion, just returned from active duty in Afghanistan. Not only were they well prepared for deployment, but they served effectively and with honor. I'm proud to say their job well done is celebrated, not equivocated, by the people of Elberton, Georgia, and every city and town across this country that proudly welcomes its citizen soldiers home."

For more on General Odierno's comments, click here.

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