[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 193 (Thursday, December 15, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H8980]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT PROTECTS THOSE WHO SERVE

  (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, yesterday the House passed 
legislation that supports and provides for servicemembers and their 
military families who have chosen to dedicate their lives to service in 
our Armed Forces to protect American families.
  After victoriously fighting the global war on terrorism for over a 
decade, our military families deserve recognition for their service. 
This bill gives to our military families a 1.6 percent increase in 
basic pay and protects against the rising cost of health care fees.
  Additionally, the National Guard Chief, General Craig R. McKinley, 
will be provided a seat on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, giving the Guard 
a voice in military discussions. As a Guard veteran and proud dad of 
three Guard members under the command of Adjutant General Bob 
Livingston, I am grateful for the recognition of Guard capabilities.
  In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

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