[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 62 (Thursday, April 21, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E572]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            NATIONAL DEFENSE

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                           HON. DOUG LAMBORN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 21, 2016

  Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, the first and fundamental purpose of 
government is to provide for the common defense.
  Of the 17 powers granted to the Congress under Article One, Section 
Eight of the Constitution, 6 of them deal exclusively with the national 
defense.
  Providing for our national defense is the only mandatory function of 
our government.
  It follows, then, that we must take this responsibility very 
seriously.
  And I do.
  As a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am 
working to ensure that we reverse the troop cuts made by this 
Administration, and to provide the necessary materials and equipment we 
need to respond to the threats we face.
  Whether this Administration admits it or not, there are many that 
seek the ``death of America.''
  We must recognize that we are at war with terrorists--they are 
constantly devising means and methods to injure our citizens, whether 
they are home or abroad.
  As Iran, China, and Russia continue to provoke--and even detain--our 
armed forces. We must show that we will not be disrespected, 
mistreated, or intimidated.
  The best offense is a good defense and I will continue to ensure that 
we have both.

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