Semper Fidelis

Statement

It seems like tragedy is unfolding across the globe as barbaric savages like ISIS overtake the Middle East and murderous regimes like Iran fight to gain power, money and nuclear weapons to unleash a deadlier wave of terror. These past few years alone have taught us that we face a new era of threats both at home and abroad from people who want to destroy our country and our way of life. In fact, FBI Director James Comey said just last week that ISIS represents a greater threat to our security than al Qaeda. Despite the global instability and efforts of those who wish us harm, the United States of America endures because extraordinary citizens answer the call, put on the uniform and serve to defend and protect us.

A few weeks ago, we were reminded of their sacrifice when four Marines and one sailor tragically lost their lives in a horrific terror attack in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This attack was a stark reminder that evil terrorists like Mohammad Youssef Abdulazeez exist and our brave men and women in uniform remain targets even here on American soil. Reports from law enforcement officials indicate that the harm could have been a lot worse - it was only for the bravery and efforts of service members that many lives were saved. As we continue to honor and pray for the five servicemen who made the ultimate sacrifice, we must take action to protect all Americans and ensure that something like this does not happen again.

Unfortunately, our federal government is foolishly disarming our service members at recruitment centers. Americans in uniform are targets and should not be left vulnerable, yet most are barred from carrying military-issued firearms at recruitment centers by a 1992 Department of Defense Directive. It is outrageous that those we have trained to use firearms safely and efficiently are not afforded the same basic right to bear arms while on duty. These patriots are trusted to protect us overseas - they should not have their hands tied behind their backs unable to defend themselves and us when they are serving here at home.

That's why I joined my colleagues to introduce the Semper Fi Act, a bill that gives the military the ability to authorize military officers, including non-commissioned officers, to be armed when they're at recruitment centers and allows them to improve structural security at these centers. By giving recruiting centers the resources needed, we will ensure that our service members are protected in the face of the growing threat from radical Islamic extremists who target our brave men and women in uniform.

Our office honored the courageous service of these heroes by proudly flying the United States Marine Corps flag.

We are so fortunate for the sacrifice of those who fight to preserve the freedoms we hold dear. By air, by land and by sea, they serve and carry a burden heavier than many will ever know.

Another component of my efforts to serve these heroes is ensuring they get the very best, most timely care upon their return home. This week, the House will vote on the VA Accountability Act (H.R. 1994) which will streamline the process for removing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees for poor performance or misconduct and establish whistleblower protections. It's despicable that well over a year after the horrifying scandal at the VA, only 3 VA employees involved in the scandal have been fired and held accountable. There is no excuse for this. Our veterans deserve answers and real solutions, and the VA Accountability Act is a modest step in that direction.

Renee and I join the nation in mourning the deaths of our brave sailor and Marines in Chattanooga and all of their brothers and sisters we've lost. We pray for their souls, their families and the entire Armed Forces community. I will continue to work to keep their fellow men and women in uniform, both retired and active-duty, safe at home and abroad.

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