Washington | May 9, 2009 -

Americans have enjoyed relative safety and security since the unforgettable attacks of September 11, 2001.  This comfort is a direct result of the immeasurable sacrifices and contributions of our men and women in the Armed Services who have been deployed across the globe or serve right here at home.  Memorial Day is a time to show our gratitude to the heroes of our great nation who have made extremely difficult sacrifices in order to protect the rights and freedoms that we hold dear.  This week, as we celebrate Memorial Day, it is important that we acknowledge those veterans, active duty troops, and members of the National Guard and reserve who have so bravely answered the call of duty. 

Delawareans are particularly familiar with the sacrifices of military personnel as the percentage of those serving in the armed forces in our state is well above the national average.  Veterans in Delaware, and across the nation, rightfully deserve our highest respect and appreciation for their incomparable service.

With roughly 80,000 veterans living in Delaware, it is extremely important that we provide our service members with the benefits and assistance they have earned.  For this reason, I have voted, and will continue to honor our veterans with my support of legislative efforts in Congress to increase salaries and ensure medical care.  Just this past February, I introduced a bill in the U.S. Congress to honor African American recipients of the Medal of Honor.  

The challenges ahead, for our diplomatic and security personnel, are numerous and complex.  We will continue to fight extremist groups and individuals who seek to bring harm to the United States and its citizens.  The war in Afghanistan provides a set of challenges and obstacles that will test our nation's resolve and determination.  In order to give our troops every resource to succeed, I will continue to support our soldiers in the field and at home to make sure they have the equipment necessary to do their jobs.

As a senior Member of the House Committee on Education, I am also dedicated to ensuring our veterans and their families have access to a higher education.  My "Securing Success for Veterans on Campus Act," and the reforms in the updated GI Bill will help our recent combat veterans with the transition from boots to books and even apply military service towards a degree.   As we proceed through the 111th Congress, I will continue to fight for legislation to help veterans cut through the red-tape.

Finally, just this past April I visited and met with officials at the U.S. Army's Aberdeen Proving Ground, which is located just over the border in Maryland.  As a result of base closings in other parts of the country, thousands of employees and contractors are relocating to Aberdeen and will be moving into our region.  I was extremely impressed with the staff and facilities at Aberdeen and I am actively working to assist military families and attract new high-tech growth to our area.   
 
So this week, as we celebrate our nation's heroes and honor those who have worn the uniform, let us also remember some of the people who often work behind the scenes, including the thousands of military families and veterans health care professionals who have committed themselves to supporting our nation's heroes each and every day.  Working together, I believe we can all help to make our nation stronger as we endeavor to live up to the tremendous example set by our country's veterans.  Thanks for taking the time to thank a veteran or service member this Memorial Day.