[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 117 (Tuesday, September 8, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S9992]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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          LABOR DAY AND THE RESERVISTS' MODEL EMPLOYER PROGRAM

 Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, as America celebrated the Labor Day 
holiday this past weekend, it seems appropriate to take a moment to 
highlight the recent efforts to renew the partnership between the 
National Guard and Reserve forces and their community employers. Now, 
more than in any recent decade, the Guard and Reserve are key to 
maintaining our military commitments. More than a quarter million 
members served in Operation Desert Storm, and more than 17,000 have 
been called to active duty to support operations in Bosnia.
  The partnership between all employers, whether in the private or 
government sector, and the Reserve forces must extend beyond the 1994 
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). 
Communications and cooperation between employers and their employees 
who participate in the National Guard and Reserve must be maintained to 
support our military structure. Without employers' full support, it 
becomes much more difficult to maintain our military strength.
  In Idaho, we have more than 5,400 Guard and Reservists. These men and 
women not only serve to support our national security, but also carry 
out a wide range of domestic missions. Last year, Idaho lost two 
Reservists who were responding to flooding emergencies. We do not 
forget that they paid the ultimate price to protect our community 
during disaster. Although we may never be able to thank our Guard and 
Reserve forces enough for their efforts and commitment, we can ensure 
that they have flexibility to serve in their units and secure 
employment upon their return. This renewed partnership between 
employers and our Guard and Reserve will do just that.
  Labor Day is not just Labor's Day. It is a celebration of an all-
American accomplishment and an all-American ethic. Here, the dignity of 
labor is not a matter of partisan politics, but civic pride. Public 
recognition of the partnership between individuals who serve their 
country and communities, and the employers who support them, is a true 
way to celebrate this Labor Day holiday.

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