[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 31 (Tuesday, March 15, 2005)]
[House]
[Page H1426]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   OUR MOST IMPORTANT BUDGET PRIORITY

  (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, under the leadership of 
President George W. Bush, the men and women of our armed forces are 
winning the war on terrorism. By dedicating their lives to fighting for 
the American people and stabilizing emerging democracies, our soldiers 
are protecting our country and defeating the goals of the terrorists. I 
am grateful for their service.
  The President has submitted a supplemental budget request that will 
dramatically increase funding for body armor, hardened vehicles, and 
technology to protect our troops in the field. The supplemental also 
increases the maximum service member group life insurance benefits and 
the one-time death gratuity for combat fatalities. I strongly support 
the President's request.
  Providing for our troops is the most important budget priority. 
Congress must deliver the necessary equipment and funding to our troops 
to ensure they remain safe and successful in their mission. Our family 
appreciates firsthand Iraq service with our son, Captain Alan Wilson of 
the South Carolina Army National Guard.
  In conclusion, may God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September 11.

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