The brave men and women serving our country in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere worldwide deserve more than words of support.  They need financial certainty and I am committed to making sure they are not penalized for the sacrifices they make to wage the war on terrorism.

The 2005 Defense Appropriations Act, which has been signed into law by President Bush, permanently increased pay to troops serving abroad by increasing family separation compensation from $100 to $250 dollars a month and the imminent danger wage from $150 to $225 monthly.  The legislation also increased hardship duty pay, which may be provided to troops outside of combat zones, from $300 to $750 per month, and established a program to replace lost income of reservists mobilized for extended periods up to $3,000 per month.  These raises will apply to all those serving in hostile conditions abroad, including Iraq and Afghanistan. 

The quality of life must be enhanced for our soldiers, sailors, airman and marines who so bravely serve us throughout the world.  Providing financial security to soldiers in the field and their families helps do that.  It is the least we can to do to thank them for protecting our freedom.