[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 85 (Friday, June 18, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1165-E1166]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          SUPPORT OF PASSAGE OF H.R. 4323 AND H. CON. RES. 260

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 17, 2004

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of two bills 
enacted by the House that will go a long way to helping our troops and 
providing some comfort and peace of mind to their families.
  I was pleased to vote for H.R. 4323, which helps the Department of 
Defense speed up the delivery of critically important equipment

[[Page E1166]]

like bulletproof vests and armored vehicles to our troops in the field. 
Our brave men and women in uniform depend on these resources to carry 
out their mission and minimize loss of life.
  I have heard from many deeply concerned families in my district about 
equipment deficiencies. One of my constituents, Dr. Donald W. Walsh, is 
the father of a soldier in the 933rd MP Company. Like so many parents, 
Dr. Walsh is very proud of his son but he is also worried about his 
son's safety due to the shortage of body armor and armored Humvees.
  Given all the strains on the troops and their families as a result of 
overextended tours and uncertainty, the last thing they need is to 
worry about their loved ones engaging in hostilities with outdated 
vehicles and insufficient body armor. I am glad that Dr. Walsh came to 
me with his concerns. I promised him that I would do all I can to help 
his son. Supporting this legislation is a step in that direction.
  Also, I am pleased to support H. Con. Res. 260, which recognizes and 
honors the service of non-active duty personnel who participate in 
funeral honor guards for deceased veterans. In times of war, there are 
not always enough active duty honor guards available to perform funeral 
services for our distinguished military personnel. These services are 
very important to the families of the deceased, and we should honor 
those who volunteer their time to provide these patriotic services.
  In recognition of their contributions, the House recently passed this 
bill with unanimous support. Our Nation owes a debt of gratitude to 
these dedicated men and women who bring comfort and honor to our 
deceased veterans and their families.

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