The 2015 National Defense Authorization Act

Floor Speech

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the 2015 National Defense Authorization Act this House will consider later this week.

I am very proud to represent Fort Hood, the largest military base in the world. On November 5, 2009, 5 years ago, our community suffered an unthinkable tragedy when a radicalized Islamic extremist named Nidal Hassan opened fire on Fort Hood and fatally shot 15 men and women and 1 unborn child.

More than 30 others were wounded that day. Hasan's radicalization was well known to the FBI and the DOD as early as 2005. Hasan plotted with the known terrorist Anwar al-Awlaki, and he expressed his radical views to his classmates. This administration dismissed these concerns in the name of political correctness.

Five years ago the President promised to take care of the victims of this shooting, but shortly thereafter, he turned his back on them and declared the attack to be workplace violence. These victims and their families are still waiting for justice. Our communities have suffered long enough in the name of political correctness.

I am very proud that my colleagues in the House and Senator Cornyn and Senator Cruz have not dropped the ball. We have stood for the Fort Hood community and the victims of this terrorist act even as the President failed to act. The House and Senate have agreed on this legislation that will allow these heroes to receive Purple Hearts and make them eligible for the benefits they deserve. The victims and their families will soon receive justice and closure. I am proud to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to yield to the gentleman from Texas, Roger Williams, my strong partner in this effort.

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