Johnson Highlights Local Efforts to Help Deployed Servicemembers and Their Families in Sioux Falls

Press Release

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) today highlighted local efforts that are being made to help deployed soldiers, sailors and airmen and their families during a roundtable discussion in Sioux Falls. Johnson, Chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, also stressed the need to provide for our men and women in uniform once they return home.

"An airman, sailor or solider sent overseas has a big impact on families and their community. South Dakotans have always stepped up to lend a hand," said Johnson. "I was proud of the efforts that were discussed today, from local groups sending thousands of care packages to our troops to local businesses supporting our Armed Forces."

During the roundtable, Chris Monger told Johnson how the Hartford Red Hat Ladies have sent approximately 4,000 care packages to South Dakota troops over the last several years. Johnson was also told by Don Kelpin about efforts to inform both soldiers and employers about their rights while deployed and programs that recognize supportive employers. Johnson signed the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve's Statement of Support, which recognizes employers that promote an understanding of Guard and Reserve service.

"As someone who has hired employees that have served overseas, I was proud to sign the letter of support today. Members of the local community are doing their part to help our servicemembers, and as Chairman, I will continue making sure that Washington lives up to its responsibility as well," continued Johnson.

In addition to fighting for funding for our servicemembers, Johnson has used his position as Chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee and his seat on the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure record levels of funding for the VA. In FY 2010, Johnson announced more than $133.9 billion in total funding, including more than $78.1 billion in discretionary funding. That was $439 million over the President's budget request in discretionary funding.

Johnson was joined at the event by Lieutenant Colonel Rod Burmeister, 196th Maneuver Enhanced Brigade Administrative Officer; Lieutenant Colonel Harvey Fitzgerald, Soldier/Family Support Services Branch Chief; Sharon Roberts, Military Spouse, Volunteer Family Support; General Wayne Shanks, South Dakota Air National Guard; Commander Tom Simpson, Commander, Naval Reserve Center; Don Kelpin, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, State Chair; and Chris Monger, Hartford Red Hat Ladies.

Today's event is the first in a series Johnson will be holding across South Dakota during the Congressional District Work Period. Johnson will also hold events in Elk Point, Canton and Kyle before returning to Washington next week.

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