Supporting Our Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan

As a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Mikulski is committed to supporting our troops and their families – on the battlefield and at home.

Standing Up for Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan

Senator Mikulski is fighting for federal support of our troops abroad by:

• Advocating for additional funds for advanced body armor, armored Humvees, and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs).
• Calling for a clear timetable of troop rotation and visits home.
• Supporting increased funding for anti-IED research and technology.
• Supporting the creation of a separate Iraqi Liberation medal, in addition to the Global War on Terrorism campaign medal, for service in Iraq.

Improving Quality of Life for Troops and Their Families

Senator Mikulski is standing up for our troops and their families by:

• Championing increases in fallen heroes compensation and making sure survivors aren't taxed on military death benefits.
• Fighting for assistance to school districts serving large percentages of military-dependent children.
• Championing the Residential Communities Initiative, which uses private investments to improve military housing.
• Advocating for broadened eligibility for transportation benefits for military families to attend burial services.

Securing Honorable Pay and Educational Opportunities

Senator Mikulski is a champion for the financial security of our troops by:

• Fighting for a higher monthly combat pay.
• Working for increases in military allowances, including the family separation allowance.
• Encouraging increases in Montgomery G.I. Bill educational benefits, and more flexibility in applying for financial aid and repaying student loans for active duty troops.
• Advocating for the full refund of tuition and fees to students unable to complete their studies because of their active duty service.