[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 17382]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       MILITARY FAMILY MONTH 2011

  Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join 
me in paying tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces and their 
families during Military Family Month 2011.
  Each November marks Military Family Month. This is an important time 
for Americans to recognize and honor the commitment and sacrifices of 
our extraordinary military families.
  And it is a time to express our gratitude. We know that when a 
servicemember puts on a uniform, the entire family sacrifices for our 
country. Military families endure frequent moves, long separations, 
interruptions in careers and education, and the anxiety that comes with 
having a loved one in harm's way. They face these unique challenges 
with grace and courage.
  We also know that the security of our Nation and the readiness of our 
military are inextricably linked to the strength of our military 
families. Not only do these families support our brave men and women in 
uniform, they come together to support each other and generously 
dedicate their time to make a difference in their communities.
  As cochair of the Senate Military Family Caucus, I am deeply grateful 
to these incredible men, women and children for their strength and 
their sacrifice. Their selfless service to their communities and our 
Nation is an example for us all.
  President Obama eloquently stated in proclaiming Military Family 
Month 2011 that ``With every step we take on American soil, we tread on 
ground made safer for us through the invaluable sacrifices of our 
servicemembers and their families.''
  While we can never fully repay the debt of gratitude we owe our 
military families, we can do everything possible to lessen their burden 
and provide for their needs.
  I encourage all Americans to take time this month and all year round 
to recognize and honor our military families for the countless 
contributions they make each and every day for our great Nation.

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