July 11, 2013

Dear Friend,

It was great to spend time speaking to constituents across San Diego during the celebration of the 4th of July. I was the first to address newly naturalized American servicemembers as "My Fellow Americans," and was proud to stand with local veteran leaders to highlight POW Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl.

4th of July Events

I began my Fourth by giving blood at the San Diego Blood Bank Mobile Unit. Our first parade of the busy day was in Scripps Ranch, followed by parades in the communities of Mira Mesa and Rancho Bernardo. I finished up by speaking at the University City Fourth of July celebration. It was great to visit so many communities in my district and celebrate our country's independence with my friends and constituents.

Speaking to the University City celebration

Visiting Local Companies

During district work weeks I make a point to visit local companies to hear from business leaders and their employees about how the federal government can improve our business climate. Last week I visited BAE Systems for a town hall with employees and Semantic Research to discuss cybersecurity. Both of these employers play an important role in San Diego's technology sector.

Naturalization Ceremony on the USS Midway

I was honored to speak at a Special Naturalization Ceremony on the USS Midway Museum for servicemembers to welcome them as the newest Americans, and thank them for their leadership and service to the country they can now officially call their own.

Speaking at the Naturalization Ceremony on the USS Midway

Navy Change of Command

Navy Region Southwest, which is based in San Diego, is getting a new commander as Rear Admiral Dixon Smith moves on to a new position in Norfolk, VA. I was honored to attend the change of command ceremony where his successor, Rear Admiral Patrick Lorge, was sworn into the role. I look forward to working with RADM Lorge to continue promoting our region's common military and community interests.

Committing to Bring POW Bowe Bergdahl Home

June 30th marked four years that Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl has been held by allies of the Taliban. He is currently the only known POW from our conflict in Afghanistan. Local veteran leaders joined me at a press conference to bring awareness to Sergeant Bergdahl. This week, I introduced a Congressional Resolution calling for our country to commit to bringing him home safely. I also sent a letter to the President and Secretary of State Kerry asking them to continue monitoring this complex situation.

Press Conference with local veteran leaders

Staying in Contact

Please continue to let me know your thoughts on issues facing our country. Feel free to email me or call my office at 202-225-0508 or 858-455-5550 if you have any questions, suggestions, or issues with a federal agency. For updates on what I am working on make sure to 'like' my page on Facebook, follow me on Twitter @RepScottPeters, or visit my website.

Sincerely,