[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 64 (Monday, May 10, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E797]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      DEPLORING ABUSE OF PERSONS IN UNITED STATES CUSTODY IN IRAQ

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                               speech of

                            HON. TODD TIAHRT

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 6, 2004

  Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, Like all Americans, I am appalled and 
saddened at the recent reports and pictures out of Abu Ghraib prison in 
Iraq which show inexcusable treatment of Iraqi prisoners by a handful 
of American soldiers.
  While these acts of humiliation apparently were committed by a very, 
very small number of our troops and contractors serving in Iraq, the 
image of our entire nation has been tarnished.
  I believe Congress must closely examine these revelations of 
misconduct and those who are responsible, both directly and indirectly, 
should face swift and appropriate punishment.
  Unfortunately, the damage they have done to America's standing in the 
Arab community and the world will take far longer to repair.
  Mr. Speaker, I believe that the outstanding men and women of our 
armed forces in Iraq--nearly all of whom had absolutely no part in this 
reprehensible behavior--can indeed repair the damage that has been done 
by an irresponsible few. Every day these brave men and women 
courageously perform their duties with honor as part of our efforts to 
give the Iraqi people a lasting democracy.
  Throughout our history, America has been known for its compassion, 
decency, and sense of fairness and I am confident that through a 
continued commitment to democracy and human rights not only in Iraq, 
but around the world, we will remain what Abraham Lincoln called ``The 
Last Great Hope on Earth.''

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