Washington, DC, May 29, 2006 -  U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) has consistently supported our veterans and active military members. Congressman Carter co-sponsored two pieces of legislation being signed by the President today that honor and assist our brave service men and women and their family members. Memorial Day gives Americans an opportunity to remember the members of our armed forces who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“On Memorial Day we solemnly pay respect to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Today we honor and remember the brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who have selflessly contributed to the security and freedom of America and our people. God bless our nation and our military,” Congressman Carter said.

“I am pleased to have supported two bills being signed into law today that respect and honor our troops. By signing the Respect for America’s Fallen Heroes Act into law, the burial services of our fallen service members will finally be protected from protestors. The service men and women who give their lives in service to the nation deserve to be buried peacefully and with dignity,” said Congressman Carter. “The HERO Act ensures that our brave service men and women who are defending America overseas have the opportunity to fully participate in saving for retirement. I am pleased to see this injustice corrected so our soldiers can start saving now.”

Following are just a few of the bills that Congressman Carter has supported that benefit our military and veterans:

· H.R. 5037, the Respect for America’s Fallen Heroes Act, will prevent protestors from harassing mourners at the funerals of military men and women who die while serving their nation.

· H.R. 1499, theHeroes Earned Retirement Opportunities (HERO) Act, allows members of the Armed Forces who earn combat pay to contribute into retirement savings plans.

· H.R. 5385, the Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2007, provides a historic $25 billion dollars for Veteran’s medical services and increases funding by $20 million for facility improvements in existing veterans’ homes. Congressman Carter sits on the Appropriations Subcommittee that was responsible for this legislation.

· S. 1235, the Veterans’ Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act, will provide housing assistance to disabled veterans residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member.

For information on the brave men and women serving our country, visit: