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WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-Upper Arlington) submitted the following opinion letter to the editor: “Word out of Iraq and other fronts in the War on Terror is mixed these days. We have had great victories, such as the Iraqi confirmation of its National Assembly and the capture of a top Al-Qaeda operative, as well as news of disappointment. The terrorists are losing the war, but they continue to wreak their havoc. For many Americans, it is easy to get so caught up in the daily activities of life that the War on Terror is, at best, given a passing thought as they read the paper or watch television news. But for those who have loved ones serving in our military, the war is an all-consuming burden that they carry with them every day. Military life can be quite difficult. While our soldiers have faced increased deployments and longer family separations, spouses have remained behind to "hold down the fort." Through dedication and care they meet the challenges of job, family and home while their loved one is absent. And many times our reservist families do it without the benefit of their spouse’s regular paycheck. Far too often these sacrifices of the military families have gone unnoticed and unappreciated. But they are really the true backbone of our country. Our armed services take care of the front lines, but our country and military couldn’t stand as tall without the solid foundation of its citizens. Military wives and husbands have set a superior example through devotion, courage, and commitment. Because of them we are a nation of strength. President Reagan first recognized the importance of our military families in 1984, when he proclaimed the Friday before Mother's Day of each year to be Military Spouse Appreciation Day. May is a special month for members of the military. It is National Military Appreciation Month, which also observes Memorial Day, Victory Day and Armed Forces Week. While nothing can compare to having a loved one safe at home, Congress is doing its part to make sure our military men and women are well protected and their families are supported. The Emergency Supplemental Appropriations conference report passed by the House last week provides nearly $76 billion in defense-related spending, including money for body armor and more heavily-armored humvees. The legislation also includes increases in death benefit insurance and gratuity for military families who have lost loved ones. In addition, the report includes funding for a new insurance program for soldiers who have suffered traumatic injuries such as loss of limb or sight, or other debilitating injuries. The next time you notice our flag flying in the wind, see a “support our troops” bumper sticker, or just go about your daily business, I encourage you to stop for a moment to consider the sacrifice our military spouses make for our nation’s security and freedom. They deserve recognition and our sincerest appreciation for their strength, unity, patriotism and support. To all military spouses, I say “thank you.” |
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