[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 23 (Wednesday, February 7, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HIRE A VETERAN WEEK

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                            HON. TODD TIAHRT

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 7, 2007

  Mr. TIAHRT. Madam Speaker, I rise to support H. Con. Res. 5, a 
resolution supporting ``Hire a Veteran Week.'' Supporting our troops 
should not be confined just to the battlefield; supporting our troops 
extends beyond their time in active duty. The liberties we enjoy today 
were earned through the bravery and sacrifice of patriotic Americans. 
America must never turn her back on her veterans.
  Historically, unemployment of veterans is higher than in the civilian 
populations. This is a national tragedy. Veterans are hard-working, 
self-sacrificing patriots. Unfortunately, many employers simply do not 
understand the skills, capabilities, and tremendous value that veterans 
bring to any workplace. Through efforts such as ``Hire a Veteran 
Week,'' coupled with those of the Departments of Defense, Veterans 
Affairs and Labor, Veteran Service Organizations, and various non-
profit groups, we will bring attention to the benefit of hiring 
veterans.
  I am very pleased to see that the unemployment rate for veterans has 
fallen by one-third since 2005. Although the unemployment rate is still 
higher than the civilian population, these new numbers are clear 
evidence that progress is being made. As with most progress, we must 
not be content to rest on past accomplishments. I will not be happy 
until every veteran who wants to work is able to make a good living for 
themselves and their families.
  To those companies that have hired a veteran, I say, ``thank you.'' I 
have never met a business owner who has regretted hiring a veteran, and 
appreciate their willingness to understand the value of our veterans 
and make room for them in their organization.
  While I say it all the time, I can never say it enough. ``Thank you'' 
to the men and women of our Armed Forces for guaranteeing freedom for 
all Americans. May God bless you, and may God bless America.

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