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March 23, 2007

Velázquez Statement on the Passage of the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Health, and Iraq Accountability Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Health, and Iraq Accountability Act, a measure voted on in the House that provides troops with the equipment they need, requires Iraqis to take responsibility for their own country, helps to fight the war on terror, and establishes a responsible strategy for the redeployment of U.S. troops:

“I am proud to support the US Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Health, and Iraq Accountability act.  This bill allows the United States a rare opportunity to begin to correct a horrible mistake.  It reflects our values in the world: it bans torture, says no to permanent military bases in Iraq, and provides for veterans care. 

“Most importantly, this legislation brings our brave men and women home in a timely, responsible manner.  It means that one day soon, our sons and daughters will return home from Iraq, here to New York City, and I cannot wait until we can welcome them back again to our neighborhoods.

“It’s time we remind the Bush Administration and the world that America stands for a different set of values -- peace, compassion, human rights and responsible leadership.  Real security means strengthening our people at home, and building bridges in the world.  While we cannot achieve all of these goals overnight, we can stand together today for getting back on the right track.”