“I strongly agree with Secretary Cohen’s statements that we have a moral obligation to protect our men and women from the threat of all biological and chemical attacks.” Jones wrote.  “But we also have the same moral obligation to those men and women willing to die for our nation that any medical protection we provide them is absolutely safe, effective, and necessary.  The report issued by Representative Shays’ subcommittee clearly highlights the government’s failure to uphold our end of the bargain.”

 In a February 18 letter to President Clinton, Congressman Jones asked the President to suspend the mandatory nature of the program until the report and its findings can be further reviewed and addressed.

 “The subcommittee report, based on countless hours of hearings, research, and discussion, raises serious, legitimate questions about the mandatory program that should evaluated. However, rather than take the time to review and address the congressional report’s finding, the Department of Defense dismissed it out of hand.” Jones wrote. “This unyielding refusal to consider any opposing views as anything more than “internet hysteria” does nothing to protect our men and women in uniform.  Instead, it serves to erode the service member’s very trust in their military and civilian leadership that is necessary for their survival.” he wrote.

 “Mr. President, I strongly urge you to exercise your powers as Commander-in-Chief and follow the advice of Representatives Shays’ subcommittee.  Given the lack of a clearly defined imminent threat, taking the time to pause this mandatory program and thoroughly address the report’s findings is the most prudent course of action.  Doing so could restore our servicemen and women’s faith in their leadership and prevent the loss of more outstanding soldiers, sailors, airmen, or Marines.  Our nation has an obligation to provide those men and women in uniform no less.”

 Congressman Jones introduced H.R. 2543 last summer, which would make the Department of Defense’s anthrax vaccine program voluntary for all members of the Armed Services.  A copy of the letter is available upon request.