Sen Tim Mathern's Testimony in Support of SCR 4022 (House)
SCR 4022, Government and Veterans Affairs Committee, March 22, 2007
Chairman Haas and Members of the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee, my name is Tim Mathern. I am a Senator from Fargo and introduced SCR 4022. The resolution addresses the cause of peace in Iraq and Afghanistan.
This resolution recognizes our brave men and women in uniform and heartily supports our troops, their hard work, and self-sacrifices. Many have given their lives; countless others will suffer lifelong consequences. This resolution as introduced urged Congress and the President to pursue peace in Iraq and disengage American combat forces from Iraq. The Resolution was amended in the Senate to remove more specific provisions asking that the troops be withdrawn. The Senate also added reference to Afghanistan.
Many concerned and insightful people are here to testify to support the following points:
- The American people favor return of the troops.
- The best way to support the troops at this time is to bring them home.
- Military experts advise redeployment from Iraq.
- Continuation or escalation of the Iraq war would hurt states and taxpayers.
- Continuation or escalation of the Iraq war would harm civilians, including children.
Mr. Chairman and members of the Committee, while the war on terror may be ongoing, the focus of this resolution is our soldiers and the war in Iraq. This resolution does not address the issues of the past, for example should we or should we not have gotten into this war or the equally serious issue as to what is accomplished or not accomplished by our presence thus far in Iraq. This resolution is forward looking, it asks the President and Congress to make concerted efforts toward peace to save lives and resources.
This resolution supports a responsible transition process from Iraq. Our citizens have died in war, our citizens have been wounded in war, and our citizens pay for war. They have a right and duty to speak about this war.
I have a set of amendments for your consideration in hopes that following the testimony you might add them to make this resolution stronger and more directive about supporting our troops by bringing them home from Iraq. The amendments also add wording about providing adequate services for our veterans. As I have learned as a member of the Appropriations Committee, many will have special needs for the rest of their lives.
I look forward to the testimony of other citizens.
Thank you for your consideration. I ask for your Do Pass recommendation on SCR 4022. Thank you.