Rep. Cook Issues Response To Secretary Carter's Statement on Suspension of Collections of Reenlistment Bonuses

WASHINGTON – Rep. Paul Cook (R- Apple Valley) issued the following statement today in response to Secretary Ashton Carter’s announcement that the Pentagon would suspend collections from California National Guard Members who received improper reenlistment bonuses:

“As I stated from the beginning of this controversy, Secretary Carter has long had the authority to suspend collection of these reenlistment bonuses, so I’m pleased he’s heeded my call to use that authority and stop taking money from our veterans. But there’s more work to be done, as this is only a suspension of collection, not a permanent solution. I agree with Secretary Carter that we must resolve this in a way that puts as little burden as possible on servicemembers. These men and women answered our country’s call and defended the nation in a time of war. They should be praised, not punished.”

A member of the House Armed Services, Natural Resources, and Foreign Affairs Committees, Cook served as an infantry officer and retired after 26 years as a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his time in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.