Congressman Elijah E. Cummings Proudly Representing Maryland's 7th District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2006

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Devika Koppikar
(202) 225-4741 or (202) 225-4025
Trudy Perkins
(410) 685-9199 or (202) 225-4741
Mike Christianson
(410) 685-9199 or (202) 225-9876

Washington, DC -  U.S. Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-Maryland), released the following statement on the day dedicated to the millions of brave men and women who have served our country in uniform.

"On Veterans Day, as on every other day, we must never forget that human freedom remains America's first principle and the ultimate source of our strength.

"Freedom is not free-and no one has paid a higher price or sacrificed more for our freedom than our service men and women.

"Without the valiant service of our military and their families - America would not stand as a beacon of hope, opportunity and freedom around the world.

"It is shameful that many of our veterans, upon returning home from war, are faced with difficulties during their transition back into our communities.

"They have compelling needs, such as access to affordable healthcare, housing and the other benefits they have earned.

"And with the war in Iraq projected to continue for the next five to ten years, those needs will increase dramatically.

"That is why on this Veterans Day, I call on my colleagues to immediately consider and pass the comprehensive New GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century. 

"Now is the time for the U.S. government to again fulfill our moral obligation to those who have fought for freedom and democracy. 

"The New GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century would strengthen GI benefits by improving access to educational opportunities and focusing on providing better veterans' health care, including mental health care. 

 "Our troops, veterans, and the families of those who have given their lives in defense of our country deserve the gratitude, respect and support of the American people and their government. 

"Our military makes a pledge to leave no soldier behind on the battlefield.  As a nation, let our pledge be that we will leave no veteran behind when they return home."