[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 6]
[House]
[Page 7894]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




        VOLUNTEER MILITARY EXCEEDING RE-ENLISTMENT EXPECTATIONS

  (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, today's all-volunteer 
military protects Americans every day by bravely fighting the war on 
terrorism in Afghanistan, Iraq, and wherever terrorists attack. Despite 
the sacrifice and commitment service in our armed service requires, and 
despite the enemies of freedom who are attacking America and its 
allies, troops are reenlisting at rates exceeding our expectations.
  September 11 changed America's psychology. Americans know there is a 
real and visible threat to our life and liberty. The troops who are 
signing back up for service know better than anyone how important this 
fight against terrorism is to the future of our Nation and to freedom 
throughout the world to protect American families.
  Mr. Speaker, we have 1.4 million men and women who are on active 
duty, along with 1.2 million who serve in the Guard and Reserves. These 
volunteers and their families are dedicated individuals who have chosen 
a life of honor and duty to our country. I ask all my colleagues to 
join me in thanking servicemembers for their service.
  In conclusion, may God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September 11.

                          ____________________