Best way to thank troops is to fund budget, Rumsfeld says - Around the Fleet - Department of Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld - Brief Article

All Hands, April, 2002 by Jim Garamone

U.S. military personnel are extraordinary, said Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, and the best way to thank them is to ensure they have the tools they need to defend against current threats and the newer threats of the 21st century.

Rumsfeld testified before the House Appropriations Committee's defense subcommittee Feb. 14. He also presented the FY03 Defense Budget Request to the appropriators.

Rumsfeld told the representatives that the men and women in uniform "are voluntarily risking their lives in dangerous corners of the world to defend the lives and freedoms of all of us and our fellow citizens."

In addition to asking the committee to fund the "people portions" of the budget, he made a case for funding transformation of the military. Rumsfeld said that no president gets a chance to use military capabilities he proposes because "transformation takes time."

But, it all comes back to people, Rumsfeld said. "If we are to win the war on terror and prepare for tomorrow, we have to take care of the most important asset we have, the men and women in uniform," he said.

The department must compete with the private sector for the manpower to fill the ranks. He said the country can't afford to count solely on the willingness of military men and women to sacrifice in defense of the country. He said the 4.1 percent pay raise and an additional $300 million for a possible targeted pay raise will help. Funding medical benefits and improving the housing situation for service members will also send the right message.

"Smart weapons are worthless unless they are in the hands of smart, well-trained, highly motivated soldiers, Sailors, airmen and Marines," he said.

For additional news about America's war on terrorism, go to www.defendamerica.mil.