May 23, 2006

During times of remembrance, most often the focus is on deeds and wars, and the veterans who accomplished so much on our behalf through their commitment to duty. Today, let us remember that this commitment to duty is still being made by service members across the world.

We know that our Army has the confidence of the nation as we continue the long struggle against global terrorism and work to preserve freedom at home and around the world. They understand the selfless sacrifice, professionalism and determination that our soldiers bring to every mission.

I want to share with you part of this year’s message from our secretary, our chief of staff and sergeant major of the Army because it sets this important date in context.

Just before the Battle of Bull Run, a soldier named Sullivan Ballou wrote to his wife. "I have no misgivings about or lack of confidence in the cause in which I'm engaged. I know how strongly American civilization now leans upon our triumph, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of America's Revolution." Sullivan Ballou would die only days later in the Battle of Bull Run. And today, we know his sacrifice was not in vain. Nor have been the sacrifices of all those we honor on this Memorial Day.

The heroes of years gone by, like Sullivan Ballou, certainly deserve recognition. But before the Congress departs Washington to do so, it must take care of the hundreds of thousands of men and women who today are actively engaged in combat around the world.

The U.S. Army – the main force in the Global War on Terrorism – is about to go broke. By the end of June, funding for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan; support programs for Soldiers and their families; daily maintenance activities; and other needs will be completely exhausted. The consequences of going into the red will be broad, with significant negative impacts to troops serving in the war zone, those getting ready to deploy and those returning home.

This impending financial crisis should not be news to anyone. In February, the president forwarded to the Congress a request for supplemental appropriations to get the military through the remainder of the fiscal year and to address other requirements, such as hurricane recovery. Since then, the bill has been debated and expanded, but not passed.

Members of Congress and their staffs have been briefed repeatedly on the Army’s and the Defense Department’s fiscal timeline: Supplemental legislation must be on the president’s desk by June in order to keep the Army functioning. All know a disaster is looming and yet seem poised to leave the capital for a week’s vacation without having finished their work.

Congress should demonstrate its commitment to our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines by passing the Fiscal Year 2006 supplemental before leaving town for the summer. It would be a grave dishonor to all who have worn the uniforms of the U.S. military to mark Memorial Day by neglecting the men and women currently on the frontlines.

These are all important signs which put substance into the oft-cited words, “We support the troops.” Now is the time to vote for the supplemental.