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Washington, DC (November 11, 2006) - Today, Congresswoman Johnson issued the following statement honoring Veterans Day.
"Veterans Day is a time for our nation as a whole to pay tribute to the millions of brave men and women in uniform. On this Veterans Day I wish to express my unyielding gratitude and shed light on the complex and difficult challenges faced by our veterans both during and after their military service. Today, there are over 24.5 million military veterans in the United States; 1.7 million veterans in Texas, and close to 500,000 veterans reside here in Dallas. From a personal perspective, I am, like many others, indebted to the American men and women who serve our country."
"During my 15 years of service as the chief psychiatric nurse of the Dallas Veterans Administration Hospital, I was honored and humbled by the courageous and painful stories told by the veterans. This experience changed my life and strengthened my respect and appreciation for our armed forces. I have never forgotten these brave men and women, and continue to take every opportunity to advocate in favor of policies and benefits that improve the lives of our nation’s veterans."
"This year I sponsored legislation that provided access to higher education for young people who lost a parent or guardian as a result of the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is estimated that over 1,600 children have lost a parent as a result of the Iraqi War. The ‘Children of Fallen Soldiers Pell Grant Act of 2006’ provides financial assistance for higher education by waiving the income eligibility requirements on Pell Grant applications. By waiving this requirement, children of fallen soldiers will be eligible to receive a maximum Pell Grant award. For many kids, this bill holds the promise of opportunity that could make a world of difference in their futures."
"With new leadership in Congress, we will renew our commitment to legislation and policies that benefit our troops, veterans and the families of those who have given their lives in defense of our country. These brave Americans deserve the gratitude, respect and support of the American people and their government. The battlefield pledge is to leave no soldier behind. As a nation, let it be our pledge to leave no veteran behind."
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