[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 9]
[Senate]
[Page 12247]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION DAY

  Mr. HAGEL. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the men and women 
that serve our Nation as military spouses. I greatly admire the 
strength, courage, and commitment of these special individuals.
  In 1984, President Ronald Regan recognized the vital importance and 
personal sacrifice of the military spouse by declaring the Friday 
before Mother's Day as Military Spouse Appreciation Day. The impact 
that the military spouse has on the readiness and effectiveness of 
today's all-volunteer Armed Forces cannot be overstated.
  However, military spouses are rarely thanked or recognized for the 
vital role that they play in maintaining our national security.
  Today, more than 50 percent of our total force is married. Of the 
1.12 million military spouses 92 percent are women, 78 percent are 
enlisted spouses, 57 percent are between the ages of 25-40 years, 73 
percent have children, and 65 percent also work outside of the home.
  The Armed Forces' current operational tempo has placed unique 
challenges and extraordinary strain on our military families. Months of 
waiting and late nights filled with worry about a forward deployed 
loved one can take a toll on the most steadfast and stout-hearted man 
or woman. Despite this intense strain, military spouses have remained 
committed and loyal to their servicemember and families. These men and 
women know the true meaning of sacrifice and devotion.
  Today, America says thank you to our loving military spouses.

                          ____________________