Congressman Reyes Visits Troops in Iraq

CONGRESSMAN REYES VISITS TROOPS IN IRAQ

Congressman Reyes met with El Paso soldiers during a visit to Iraq from February 5th - February 9th, 2004.

During my recent trip to Iraq, I had the opportunity to visit with El Pasoan Lieutenant Andrew Cobos and fellow Captain Archie Herndon (from Canutillo), both proudly carrying out their respective duties in a tough and dangerous environment.

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, my congressional oversight responsibilities demand that I know the situation on the ground. I can ask Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld questions about living conditions or food service in a hearing room in Washington, but his answers do not even compare to the first-person experience I gain when meeting with troops in the field. A hearing room in Washington does not allow me to sense the danger and feel the anxiety these soldiers live with all the time - and does not show the soldiers that we care about them and are proud of their hard work.

While facing the danger and anxiety that surrounds a war, our troops remain extremely professional and focused. Even while living under tough circumstances, morale is high. Soldiers have access to e-mail, phones and mail services. As a soldier who served 13 months in Vietnam, I know the importance of these seemingly small things. A lifeline home is crucial and can raise the spirits of both our soldiers and those at home awaiting their return.

I am concerned, however, with the equipment and protective gear soldiers are using. We need the right combination of armor for our Humvees and patrol vehicles. We need un-manned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to provide added protection in the border regions, which are still extremely dangerous. I shared a few meals with the troops, and while the food is not horrible, it could definitely improve. These CODELs are important because contractors now know that we will visit these bases, sample their work and not put up with sub-standard food service.

Most importantly, though, this CODEL served as a morale booster for our troops. Regardless of the differing opinions surrounding this war, we are there and need to finish the job. With the caliber of soldiers serving in the Middle East right now, we are certain of a job well done. I am extremely proud of the men and women I met, including a few soldiers from the El Paso region. I know there are many concerned families waiting for their loved ones to return home. I share your concerns and will do my absolute best to ensure their safety and security while they are fighting to ensure ours.