[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 190 (Thursday, November 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2270]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          OUR TROOPS IN BOSNIA

                                 ______


                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 30, 1995

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I question the President's 
decision to send 20,000 American ground troops to Bosnia. With the 
additional military personnel the President has committed to the 
Balkans, our total presence will be over 30,000 men and women.
  I believe that, as Americans, we best serve our Nation's foreign 
policy interests when we present a single, unified voice. The 
President, however, hasn't yet presented a compelling case for American 
combat troops.
  I am willing to listen to the President, and will base my decision on 
the following criteria: Is the deployment of troops in our national 
interest? Are the mission's objectives clearly defined and obtainable? 
Can the mission be accomplished and finalized within a reasonable time 
period?
  I will evaluate all the facts and, in consultation with the Defense 
Department and other military experts, reach a decision at the 
appropriate time.

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