Armed Forces Day 2004

While these have been challenging times in America’s war on terrorism, I know that many of you join me in the belief that in the end, we will win the war on terrorism, providing millions of people around the world with the democracy they deserve. We have heard lately the reports about some disturbing actions on behalf of a few of those who serve our country. I believe they are few and far between. The service men and women I have encountered in Iraq and other parts of the world serve as true examples of those who believe in the dignity of all men and women, and who believe freedom is not just for a few.

I hope you will join me in thinking of our overseas personnel; particularly on May 15, 2004, Armed Forces Day. The third Saturday in May is observed annually as Armed Forces Day. In fact, Armed Forces Week began on May’s second Saturday, and ends on the third Sunday of the month. These are both opportunities to thank our armed services for the job they do day in and day out.

President Truman’s Defense Secretary, Louis Johnson, first designated Armed Forces Day as an occasion to recognize the fine work of our service men and women. That was back in 1949 -- more than half a century ago. The day was originally established to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force Days by designating a single day for all three. The idea of a single day stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under one department – the Department of Defense.

President Truman, in a speech announcing the day’s formation, praised “the work of the military services at home and across the seas,” and said, “it is vital to the security of the nation and to the establishment of a desirable peace.”

When it was established, the day aimed to be a type of educational program for citizens. But today’s current events have led to a much wider understanding of the challenging work our loved ones face while serving their country.

As I write this, our brave men and women are fighting to protect the values and freedoms that we as Americans value.

Our armed forces must remain the world’s premier force. As Vice-Chair of the Military Construction Appropriations subcommittee, which oversees quality of life issues for military members and their families, I am pleased to have had an opportunity to work on important issues for our troops.

Most recently, the fiscal year 2004 Defense Authorization bill (HR 1522) contained an average basic pay increase of 4.15% – more than what had been expected, or even requested by the administration. We were also able to offer significant increases for military health care, educational programs, reserve and national guard programs, and to veterans’ pay. Our soldiers in both Iraq and Afghanistan are now eligible for other bonuses as well, such as a 150% increase in hostile fire and imminent danger pay.

Support from home is essential to keeping our armed forces at their peak level. It is my hope, however, that our appreciation for these men and women, and all that they do, will not be limited by the calendar. They should be in our thoughts and prayers all year long and especially now.