[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 30 (Wednesday, February 15, 1995)]
[House]
[Page H1766]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                      TAKING CARE OF OUR VETERANS

  (Mr. MENENDEZ asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, if anyone needed any more proof that the 
Republican majority is prepared to march in lock-step, like lemmings 
over a cliff, look no further.
  Last night, an amendment to the Republican welfare bill, which would 
have spared legal residents who have served this country in our Armed 
Forces from being cut off from social service programs, was defeated by 
the GOP on a strict party-line vote.
  That is right, you heard me correctly. Every Republican, save one who 
so courageously voted ``present,'' voted last night to repay the 
loyalty, dedication, and service of these veterans with a slap in the 
face. They made it clear that Republicans view permanent residents who 
serve their new country in the Armed Forces as immigrants first, and 
veterans second.
  Instead of spending billions for star wars, Republicans should be 
taking care of their veterans.
  Mr. Speaker, this outrageous action against those veterans who risked 
their lives on behalf of their country, so that we who serve in this 
body may do so in freedom, marks a dark day in our history.

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