Straight Talk with Sam: Taking Care of Veteran's

STRAIGHT TALK WITH SAM
Volume 5, Issue 12
Taking Care of Veteran's
Monday, March 21, 2005

When Thomas Jefferson wrote our Declaration of Independence he wrote of our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. He was talking about freedom. We enjoy freedoms in this country that are found no where else on earth. It is important to remember that freedom never has and never will come free.

This nation has been blessed with men and women who have fought bravely overseas for our country and our way of life. Because they fought for us, I believe that we should now honor the promises made to them. We must make sure that taking care of our veterans is a top priority.

The current budget calls for an increase of $738 million over last year's spending. Since I came to Congress in 2001, veteran's funding has increased by 43%. I am committed to providing the resources needed to keep our promise.

Taking care of our veterans requires more than just funding. That is why last year the Department of Veteran's Affairs completed a study of services and needs that called for a transformation of where services are provided. This transformation will increase the number of services where veteran's live. This means smaller facilities rather than one large underused one. Over the next 2 years, we will spend 1.5 billion for this realignment.

I believe that we have a duty to take care of those who have fought for our freedom. Because they fought for us, I will continue to fight for their needs in Congress.

http://www.house.gov/graves/straighttalk/2005issue12.htm