On Memorial Day we take time to remember our brave men and women who gave their lives for America. As a history professor I know the vital role our men and women in uniform play in keeping us safe. Sadly I also know that Washington politicians prefer cheap talk over funding real veterans benefits. I believe we have a moral obligation to serve those who have served us.
Ralph Hall’s vote against the new GI Bill (H R 2642) shows just how out of touch he is. Hall was one of a small minority of Republican Congressmen who voted against the bill. The new bill would cover 100 percent of tuition costs and provide a stipend for housing and other living expenses. The bill has the support of Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Military Officers Association, and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
I believe the New GI Bill is a good investment for our country and our returning veterans. They are our family and friends. Those who served in Afghanistan and Iraq carried our burden; they suffered the real costs of the wars; and they deserve to be treated fairly when they come home.
Despite the fact that the bill passed the house with 256 "yes" votes and only 166 "no," President Bush has threatened to veto the bill. Many Republicans believe the costs would be too high. Democrats and moderate Republicans argued that the bill would pay for itself by increasing recruitment.
Hall is a prime example of a hypocritical Washington politician. Never once has he questioned George Bush’s failed Iraqi strategy. Never once has he apologized for diverting resources away from the hunt for Osama Bin Laden. But last week’s "No Vote" on a new GI Bill had to be the height of hypocrisy.
There was still one question outstanding—"Did Ralph Hall go to college on the GI Bill?" Hall served in a noncombat role during World War II and went to college during, and immediately after, the war. His public record doesn’t indicate how he paid for college.
It’s time for us to fight for those who fought for us. If President Bush and Ralph Hall continue to block passage of this important piece of legislation, then I promise a new direction when I get to Washington. Together we can build an American based on prosperity and justice for all. Together we can change Congress one incumbent at a time.