[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 50 (Thursday, March 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E601]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CONCERNING TREATMENT OF MEMBERS OF ARMED FORCES HELD AS PRISONER OF WAR 
                          BY IRAQI AUTHORITIES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. J. RANDY FORBES

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 26, 2003

  Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 118 
concerning the treatment of members of the Armed Forces held as 
prisoners of war by Iraqi authorities.
  Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today with a heavy heart. For the 
past two days, we've watched emotionally stirring television footage of 
POW's who are being detained by Iraqi forces. These soldiers were on 
missions to defend and protect Americans from the evils of weapons of 
mass destruction when they were captured. I am saddened when I see 
these soldiers being detained, but I am confident that their extensive 
training has given them the strength and courage of conviction to 
prevail even at the hands of an evil regime.
  While we do not know when our POW's will return home, I do know that 
we as Members of Congress expect the Iraqi regime to treat all POW's 
humanely and in accordance with the requirements set forth in the 
Geneva Convention. Those who violate this doctrine, and use force or 
other methods of inhumane treatment will be held accountable for their 
actions, and will be subject to prosecution to the fullest extent of 
the law. Brave soldiers, who give so much for our country, deserve no 
less.
  My deepest and heartfelt sympathy goes out to the families of all of 
the POW's. We can only begin to imagine the pain and concern that the 
families of POW's must feel knowing that they are in the hands of the 
enemy halfway around the world.
  It is our hope and prayer that American and coalition forces will be 
protected throughout this struggle as well as the Iraqi people.
  These POW's and their families are making a tremendous sacrifice for 
our country--our country that soldiers are so proud to serve. Our 
country--where families await the safe and speedy return of loved ones.
  My thoughts and prayers go out to all of our servicemen and women and 
to their families, who wish them a speedy and safe return.

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