FORT HOOD, Texas - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) attended a deployment ceremony this morning for Hawaii Army National Guard soldiers heading to Kuwait at the end of this month in support of the Iraq war.  Akaka is travelling this week on oversight visits to VA and military facilities in several states as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs and included a stop at Fort Hood. 

Senator Akaka made the following statement today in support of the soldiers: 

"Aloha and congratulations to the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and members of the 100th/442nd Infantry Regiment for completing your post-mobilization training.  A little over two months ago, I had the distinct honor of attending the deployment ceremony at Aloha Stadium as you prepared to leave your homes and families to attend training here at Fort Hood.  Now, I have the additional privilege of being here to wish you Godspeed as you continue your journey.

"First, let me say what an honor it is for me to be here, and that our thoughts and prayers will be with you throughout your service overseas.  I also want to express my confidence in your experience and training.  Many of you have already completed a combat tour in Iraq, and you should be proud of your accomplishments and capabilities.  I know you will perform your missions with skill, courage, and dedication.  Your contributions to your country, your community, and your families make you role models for us all.

"I want to extend my warmest mahalo to each of you for your sacrifices and service over these past several years.  Your dedication to duty does not go unnoticed.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to reiterate my commitment to the families of the all the soldiers here today.  Our military members depend, above all others, on their family members to provide them support during their deployment.  We, in turn, must provide them with all of our support.

"Each and every troop member needs to know that while they are away protecting and defending our nation that their loved ones will be treated and cared for as part of our ohana or family.  Too often, the large and small sacrifices of our military family members go unrecognized.  However, their efforts to sustain our troops are a vital part of our military's success and I value and am humbled by their contributions. 

"In closing, I once again want to thank you for your courage, perseverance, and patriotism, and wish you my Aloha pumehana, my warmest Aloha during your deployment.  I will pray for your safe and swift return.  I know that the mission in Iraq and Kuwait will benefit greatly from your presence.  For the second time in three years, the members of the 29th BCT are answering the call.  You make us all very proud, and I salute you."

Akaka is Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, and Chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. 

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