Neil Abercrombie

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5314 as passed by the Senate. The bill before the House today promotes the adoption of military working dogs at the end of their useful working life as the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) indicated or if the dog is otherwise excess to the needs of the Department. Currently, the Department of Defense does not have a policy to allow these elderly dogs to be retired and transferred to an individual or a private entity that could provide appropriate care for the aging dogs. H.R. 5314 would address this unfortunate situation and allow elderly military working dogs to be adopted by law enforcement agencies, former handlers, and other persons capable of humanely caring for these honorable military animals. The bill also includes a provision that limits the Federal Government's liability in cases where a former military working dog is transferred. H.R. 5314 provides military working dogs the same rights as dogs that serve in our community police forces. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) for his leadership in this issue. When first examined, Mr. Speaker, it seems to be something which might not necessarily be superfluous but something which, on the surface, is something that people do not even have any idea that the situation was occurring. I think people just assume quite naturally that, after a useful working life, that animals would be taken care of in a fashion other than having their lives ended. The gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) took the lead on this, and I want to thank him for it. I think people all across the country, and I can tell my colleagues, Mr. Speaker, for sure, once folks in my district found out that I was working with the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) on this, let me know in no uncertain terms that they wanted this bill to pass. If for no other reason, Mr. Speaker, if I could address the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) directly, I want to tell him he is a new hero to my wife; and he most certainly can count on my support as a result for his concern for these loyal working military animals. So with that, Mr. Speaker, I urge most vehemently my colleagues to support this measure and congratulate the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett), not only for his leadership on the issue, but for exhibiting yet once again his concern for all elements of military issues coming before our committee. It is an honor to serve with him. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Madam Speaker, I support S. 1694, the Hawaii Water Resources Development Act and urge its passage. The legislation authorizes the Bureau of Reclamation to undertake a study of the reclamation and reuse of water and wastewater in Hawaii. The Bureau is to survey irrigation and water delivery systems, identifying the costs of rehabilitating systems and evaluating future water demand. Much of Hawaii is experiencing a major drought. Sugar, long the dominant agricultural product of Hawaii, is rapidly ending as a viable commercial enterprise, freeing vast quantities of water previously devoted to irrigation. Both factors result in the need to determine prudent use of existing water resources to meet future demands. In the last 10 years, 96 sugar farms and plantations have closed and only two substantial plantations remain in commercial production. Over 130,000 of 180,000 acres previously in sugar cane production is now idle. Although economic dislocations have resulted, it also affords Hawaii the first opportunity in more than a century to diversify the agricultural sector of our economy. Diversified agriculture is now growing at 5.5% annual rate, surpassing $300 million in value. Vast tracts of some of the most productive land in the world, however, remain empty and idle. The availability of water will be a key factor in determining how these lands will be used for generations to come. The present water resources transportation and irrigation systems began in 1856 and now involve some of the most extensive and hydraulically complex systems in the world, involving tunnels blasted through mountains, open ditches, syphons and channels carrying water from the wetter sides of the islands to the interior and leeward sides for irrigation. Because of declining use, these facilities, engineering marvels of their time, are falling into disrepair. There may also be opportunities to restore traditional watersheds. But in all cases, it is essential that a comprehensive study be undertaken to assess our current needs and resources before these crucial decisions are made. Under all existing and projected scenarios, water usage will remain high. Many see Hawaii as a lush paradise filled with unique sights and recreational opportunities. It certainly is all of those, but it would be fewer of those things without water, which is not abundant in many parts of the islands. Prior to 1856, what is now some of the most fertile and productive land in the world was arid due to the geological characteristics of the Hawaiian Islands whereby most of the rain falls in the mountain ranges and windward sides, leaving the interior and leeward sides often sparse in rainfall. S. 1694, initiated by Senator Akaka, authorizes an important study, focusing on opportunities for water reuse, recycling, reclamation and conservation of water and wastewater for agriculture and non- agriculture uses. It is essential to the future of generations to come to Hawaii that wise decisions on water conservation and allocation be made. Enactment of S. 1694 is a major step in that direction and I urge passage of the bill.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep admiration that I rise to express gratitude and respect for the sacrifices given of the men and women serving on board the U.S.S. Cole. Speaking as the senior Democrat on the Subcommittee on Military Personnel of the Committee on Armed Services, I want to indicate that these men and women, like thousands of other Americans across the world, volunteered each and every day to defend and protect this Nation. Sadly, on October 12, several sailors of the U.S.S. Cole paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country while carrying out their duties. My heart and prayers are with these sailors' friends, families and loved ones. Despite the explosion that ripped through the U.S.S. Cole and wounded many members of the crew, these dedicated sailors continue to defend their ship and rescue other wounded shipmates. Their actions exemplify the perseverance of Americans and the finest tradition of our Armed Services. I want to commend and pay tribute to these selfless Americans for their service and dedication and wish them a speedy recovery. Mr. Speaker, terrible events such as these put a face to patriotism. They remind us that those in uniform around the world are young men and women from our towns and cities who volunteer in service to their country. Last year, they graduated from high school down the street; perhaps they worked at the corner store. Today they unflinchingly stare danger in the face with selfless dedication. This tragedy reminds us of the human element of our armed forces and highlights the importance of maintaining a focus on those policies that best serve these young patriots, our military personnel, and enhance the quality of their lives. Finally, this tragedy offers a window into the composition of today's military. I want to quote, Mr. Speaker, in conclusion, a piece from yesterday's Boston Globe: ``The faces of the 17 sailors who were killed aboard the U.S.S. Cole by a terrorist bomb attack last week are a portrait of today's America, a mosaic of colors of which the U.S. military is justly proud. To call out their given names is to sing a contemporary chorus of `This Land is Your Land.' Two of the casualties even represent a grim kind of civil rights milestone: They are the first women killed in naval action.'' Mr. Speaker, the crew of the U.S.S. Cole embodies what is great in America--our people and their courage, dedication, commitment, and sacrifice. To the crew of the U.S.S. Cole, their families, friends and loved ones, thank you for your service to a most grateful nation.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the conference report for the Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act. I say to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spence), I like the sound of that title. I urge my colleagues to support this important measure. I want to recognize the gentleman from South Carolina (Chairman Spence) for his leadership and stewardship of the past several years. While he will step down as chairman next year, I know that he will continue to contribute to the committee's efforts to improve the quality of life for our service members and their families and provide for a strong national defense. I would also like to acknowledge the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton), the ranking member, for his guidance and leadership. Both individuals have placed the security of our country above partisan struggle and have continued the committee's tradition of bipartisanship and cooperation. As the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Military Personnel, I am proud to say that the conference agreement before us includes quite a list of accomplishments in the personnel arena. We are sending a strong signal to the men and women in uniform that we have listened to their concerns about their need to provide for a quality of life for themselves and their families, and we have taken the steps to address those concerns. I also am particularly pleased that a number of health care provisions that I proposed have been adopted. I want to recognize the efforts of the Subcommittee on Military Personnel chairman, the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Buyer), for his dedication and commitment to improving the lives of our service members. Working together, and I want to emphasize that point, Mr. Speaker, working together, we have made major strides in providing for our service members, retirees, and their families. Finally, I would like to thank the full committee staff and, in particular, the Subcommittee on Military Personnel staff, including Debra Wada, Nancy Warner, John Chapla, Mike Higgins and Ed Eyatt. It is a terrific team, Mr. Speaker, one that this body can be proud of; and it exemplifies the kind of staff work that the entire community of people throughout the United States can be proud of. The scope of their assistance is immeasurable. Let me conclude, Mr. Speaker, by referring to one of the most important aspects of the bill, which is the promise that we keep our Medicare-eligible military retirees to restore access to lifetime military health care. The gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Buyer) has gone into this in some detail. The conference agreement allows the Medicare-eligible retirees who are currently forced out of the system when they turn 65 to continue their coverage under TRICARE. Mr. Speaker, I realize I am at the end of my remarks, but I would like to emphasize as I close that the bipartisanship that we have enjoyed I hope will continue regardless of what happens in November, and I for one am pledged to it.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. ABERCROMBIE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise reluctantly in opposition to H.R. 5174. One important component of U.S. foreign policy is the promotion of democracies world-wide. Each time the U.S. supports a fledgling democracy, we insist on a clear decoupling of the civilian leadership and a nation's military. We insist that the military subsume itself to civilian control by elected officials. This principle is as important today as it was to our Founders. Because of the strength of that principle I must stand in strong opposition to the measure before us today. Protection of this enduring principle requires adherence to established procedures. There is a longstanding tradition of avoiding the politicization of military bases. Polling activity brings with it electioneering, and that activity on a military base is clearly inappropriate. Military personnel vote at their home of record. For most, this means that they vote through absentee ballot. There is no indication that military personnel are currently disenfranchised, and that this measure would be necessary. There may be legal considerations regarding the assignment of precincts and other state election laws. These may conflict with federal considerations. The addition of new polling places may require that the states provide new balloting machines. There is no funding for this under this measure, and may therefore present the states with an unfunded mandate. Many of our bases are open bases with free access to civilians. However, some bases are not for national security and/or force protection reasons. It is unclear how this bill would affect those concerns. In addition, the Department of Defense is opposed to this provision. This provision deserves to be taken through the normal committee process, and not be considered under suspension of the rules. Most Important: There have been no hearings on this measure. Many questions, such as those above, should be fully investigated through the committee hearing process before this bill is brought to the floor. A citizen's right to vote is the linchpin of our democracy, therefore nothing should be held in higher regard nor given more deference. This bill should be afforded a full and comprehensive review by the entire Congress through established procedures. Anything short of that is irresponsible and borders on weakening the time-tested foundations of democracy. Mr. Speaker, I include additional material for the Record. The Department of Defense has a standing policy prohibiting the use of federal, active military and reserve facilities as polling or voting places. The Department believes that the military should not be involved in any way in the electoral process, in order to avoid the possibility or the perception of voter coercion or intimidation by military personnel or a military presence, or the perception that the military has authority over the election process. The principle that the military should remain separated from the electoral process is reflected in existing laws imposing criminal penalties on commanders who station troops or armed men at any place where a special or general election is held, and on members of the Armed Forces who impose regulations on the conduct of such elections or otherwise interfere in any manner with an election officer's discharge of his duties. See 18 U.S.C. 592, 593. Locating polling places on military installations, where a commander's authority is paramount, in inconsistent with DoD policy and runs the risk of exposing military personnel to criminal sanctions. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton). (Mr. SKELTON asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for the gentleman yielding, and for the opportunity, particularly since I have so much respect for his commitment to all questions that we have dealt with in the Committee on Armed Services. The issue is an important one. There is a waiver in existence now with respect to the use of the facilities so perhaps we do not find anybody in violation, inadvertently or otherwise. Perhaps this is an issue, although I realize the gentleman is not in the position of advocating the bill this evening. There should be an opportunity for us to discuss this, then, in committee. I am sure we could take up the pros and cons and maybe talk it out a little bit, and perhaps another solution could be arrived at. But I have to stand, then, with my original reluctance and at the same time say that even after this colloquy I find myself still in opposition, not necessarily to doing it or finding some other solution, but at this particular time, pending hearings in the House Committee on Armed Services, I ask that it be defeated for the time being, at least.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to comment on the last observation of the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett), which I agree with. Unfortunately, I come to a little bit different conclusion this evening. This is one of the reasons why I oppose it at this time, or oppose passage at this time. I believe voting is a patriotic act. I believe it is an act, if you will, of self-preservation of a democracy, certainly our democracy. Because free speech is so important, I think the gentleman is quite correct in observing that it is unlikely that commanders would like to have political activity, sign-holding, et cetera, very near a polling place if it was in the middle of a base. I expect different jurisdictions across the Nation have different rules with respect to how close to a voting booth one can actually politic, but nonetheless, it is unlikely that military bases would find themselves easily resolving those kinds of questions. My point, in conclusion, Mr. Speaker, is that while this is an idea that certainly should receive full discussion and consideration, passing it at this time has not allowed for that. So therefore, again, I reluctantly state my opposition at this time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to echo the comments of the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) with respect to this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I join in support of the resolution introduced by my colleague, Mr. Metcalf, in expressing the appreciation of the United States to those who were aboard the British transport H.M.T. Rohna during World War II. According to the limited data available, the H.M.T. Rohna was transporting American troops and Red Cross workers to Bombay, India, for the China-Burma-India Theater of war. On November 26, 1943, during an air attack, a German bomber launched a guided missile, which sunk the British transport. One thousand, one hundred and thirty eight individuals died as a result of the attack, including one thousand and fifteen American troops. The attack of the H.M.T. Rohna was one of the greatest losses of lives during World War II. Much of the details surrounding the sinking of the H.M.T. Rohna are still unavailable. What is known is that more than nine hundred service members survived the attack, because of the brave and heroic actions of the U.S.S. Pioneer crew, who rescued many of the survivors. However, it was not until 1995, over fifty years later, a group of survivors, next- of-kin, and rescuers, came together to recognize this historical tragedy. The resolution before the House today recognizes this devastating disaster and expresses the appreciation of the Congress to the service members who died in the sinking of the H.M.T. Rohna for their ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country, expresses admiration of the survivors and the families for their bravery and courage in brining attention to this catastrophe, and acknowledges the efforts of the United States, British and French rescuers, especially the crew of the U.S.S. Pioneer, to save the passengers and crew of the H.M.T. Rohna. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure. Mr. Speaker, it is a great pleasure for me to be on the floor with the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Metcalf) this evening in recognition of his work in this area. I want to express to him that it does not surprise me in the least, having gotten to know him over the past few years, that he is concentrating on making sure that those who had not been recognized are given the attention that they deserve. I think it expresses the kind of person that the gentleman from Washington is, and I, for one, will miss the contributions that he has made, and I am sure will continue to make to this Nation and to his community.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I can hardly add to the compelling case that the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) has made. Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that, as was mentioned by the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Metcalf), I wanted to make a statement that it does not surprise me that this legislation would be put forward by the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett). If there is anyone in the Congress who carries through on his convictions, if there is anyone who is looking out for those who cannot speak for themselves, in this instance most assuredly so, it is the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett); and I am quite proud to be able to be here this evening and to be able to support his legislation. I had no idea and I doubt if any other Member in the body had any idea that this was, in fact, the case, that working dogs in the military would be put down when they were no longer thought to be useful. And I must say in conclusion, that it just seemed perfectly natural to me when the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) came up and asked for my support that he would be leading the charge on this particular piece of legislation. It is a pleasure to be working with him and to have the opportunity to join with him in supporting this bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5314, introduced by my friend and Armed Services Committee colleague, Mr. Roscoe Bartlett. The bill before the House today would terminate the Department of Defense policy of putting down aging military working dogs and provide for their adoption Currently, there is no policy to allow these elderly dogs to be retired and transferred to an individual or private entity that could provide appropriate care for these aging dogs. H.R. 5314 would address this unfortunate situation and allow elderly military working dogs to be adopted by law enforcement agencies, former handlers, and other persons capable of humanely caring for these fine animals. The bill also includes a provision that limits the Federal Government's liability in cases where a former military working dog is transferred. H.R. 5314 allows the commander of the individual dog's unit to decide whether a particular military working dog is suitable for adoption. This will afford military working dogs the same treatment given to those dogs who serve on our community police forces, and allow military working dogs to retire and enjoy the last few years of their life. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I think the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) has provided the background, and I suspect there will be some further commentary by the introducer of the bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3621, introduced by Mr. Doug Bereuter, which would provide for the posthumous promotion of William Clark to the grade of captain in the Regular Army. William Clark was the coleader with Meriwether Lewis of the ``Corps of Discovery'', a military and scientific expedition to the Pacific Northwest from 1804 to 1806. This expedition provided vast information on the resources of the West and encouraged further exploration and settlement. In 1792, William Clark became an officer in the regular army and fought in the battle of Fallen Timbers. In 1803, Clark accepted an invitation to serve as coleader of the ``Corps of Discovery''. He spent several months studying astronomy and map-making, and traveled with Meriwether Lewis down the Ohio River to Wood River, Illinois, where they made the final preparations for their expedition across America. Upon his return from the expedition, William Clark continued his outstanding service to this nation. In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson appointed him principal Indian Agent for the Louisiana Territory and brigadier general of its militia, which he held until 1813, when he became governor of the newly formed Missouri Territory. As we begin celebrations recognizing the 200th anniversary of the Corps of Discovery, it is fitting that we acknowledge the contributions of William Clark and provide him with a posthumous promotion to Captain. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, there are no further requests for time on this side. I would like to close simply by observing that I have had the opportunity, the good fortune, I might say, through the auspices of the ranking minority member, to have conversations, with some other Members, with Mr. Ambrose, the author. I, just by way of observation, hope that, when this passes, as I am sure it will unanimously, that perhaps we could see to it that a copy of the resolution in some appropriate form be sent to him. I am sure he would find it interesting and a nice, not conclusion, certainly, but certainly an addition to the interest that Mr. Ambrose induced in the Nation with the publication of his book on the expedition. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. ABERCROMBIE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, before I yield time to my colleague from Hawaii, may I thank the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Hansen), in particular, and the rest of the members of the committee, both Republican and Democrat, for their support of the bill; and may I express yet once again publicly to my chairman, the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young), my profound gratitude for his understanding, his concern and his perseverance, dedication and focus on this bill. Mr. Speaker, I am here today to urge the House of Representatives' approval of H.R. 4904, a bill to provide a process for the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian government and the recognition by the United States of the Native Hawaiian government. On January 17, 1893, the government of the Kingdom of Hawaii was overthrown with the assistance of the United States Minister and U.S. Marines. One hundred years later, a resolution extending an apology on behalf of the United States to Native Hawaiians for the illegal overthrow of the Native Hawaiian government and calling for a reconciliation of the relationship between the United States and Native Hawaiians was enacted to law. The Apology Resolution acknowledges that the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii occurred with the active participation of agents and citizens of the United States. Further, it acknowledges that the Native Hawaiian people never directly relinquished their claims to their inherent sovereignty as a people over the their national lands to the United States, either through their government or through a plebiscite or referendum. Since the loss of their government, Native Hawaiians have sought to maintain political authority within their community. In 1978, Hawaii citizens of all races recognized the long-standing efforts of the indigenous people to give expression to their rights to self- determination and self-governance by amending the state constitution to provide for the establishment of a quasi-sovereign state agency, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The state constitution provides that the Office is to be governed by nine Native Hawaiian trustees who are elected by Native Hawaiians. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs administers programs and services with revenues derived from lands which were ceded back to the State of Hawaii upon its admission into the United States. The dedication of these revenues reflects the provisions of the 1959 Hawaii Admissions Act, which provides that the ceded lands and the revenues derived therefrom should be held by the State of Hawaii as a public trust for five purposes--one of which is the betterment of the conditions of Native Hawaiians. The Admissions Act also provides that the state would assume a trust responsibility for approximately 203,500 acres of land that had previously been set aside for Native Hawaiians under a 1921 federal law, the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. Four weeks ago, the House Resources Committee and the Senate Indian Affairs Committee held five days of joint hearings in Hawaii on H.R. 4904 and its companion in the Senate, S. 2899. More than 150 people presented oral testimony to the committees and several hundred others presented written testimony. The testimony received by the committees was overwhelmingly in support of the bills. In addition to witnesses from the Native Hawaiian community, representatives of the Departments of Justice and Interior, the President of the National Congress of American Indians, the President of the Alaska Federation of Natives, and the President of the Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indians presented oral testimony in support of the bills. With the passage of H.R. 4904, the Congress will provide a process for the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian government, and the recognition by the United States of that government for purposes of carrying on a government-to-government relationship. This bill provides that the indigenous, native people of Hawaii--Native Hawaiians--might have the same opportunities that are afforded under federal law and policy to the other indigenous, native people of the United States-- American Indians and Alaska Natives--to give expression to their rights to self-determination and self-governance. It is also important to note that the United States Congress has enacted over 160 laws designed to address the conditions of Native Hawaiians. These federal laws provide for the provision of health care, education, job training, the preservation of native languages, the protection of Native American graves and the repatriation of Native American human remains. Thus, the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian government would not necessitate a host of new federal programs to serve Native Hawaiians. Nor would the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian government have any impact on programs or the funding for programs that are authorized to address the conditions of American Indians and Alaska Natives. For the last 90 years, Native Hawaiian programs have always been funded under separate authorizations with separate appropriations. Some have asked whether the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian government might also authorize that government to conduct gaming. The answer to that question is a simple ``no.'' The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act authorizes Indian tribal governments to conduct gaming on Indian reservations or Indian lands held in trust by the United States, and the scope of gaming under the act is a function of state law. But there are no Indian tribal governments in Hawaii, nor are there Indian reservations or Indian lands. And the State of Hawaii is one of two states in the union that criminally prohibit all forms of gaming. In developing and refining this measure, we have worked not only with the a community, but with representatives of the federal and state governments, with leaders of the Alaska Native and Native American communities, and with the congressional caucuses. The bill that is before the House today has been revised as a result of the testimony received at the hearings in Hawaii and in Washington, D.C. Our objectives are simple and straightforward. As a matter of federal policy and federal law, we want to assure that the United States government deals with all of the indigenous, native people of the United States in a consistent manner--recognizing and supporting their rights to self-determination and self-governance. This is the right thing to do and I am honored to play a part in the passage of this measure. I ask my colleagues for their support. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Hawaii (Mrs. Mink). (Mrs. MINK of Hawaii asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. ABERCROMBIE

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Buyer) for his opening statement and for his sponsorship, as well. As he indicated, Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 549 introduced by my colleagues the gentleman from California (Mr. Gallegly), whom I am very happy to see on the floor today, and the co- chair of the Reserve and Guard Caucus the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Taylor), who is also with us, which recognizes the 10th anniversary of the National Guard and Reserves in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield. H. Res. 549 acknowledges the contribution of the more than 267,000 members of the National Guard and Reserves that were ordered to active duty to serve or support operations. Their activation and participation In Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm was a historic chapter in our nation's effort to achieve a total integrated force. Although the United States and its allied forces overwhelmed the Iraqi opposition, Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield were not bloodless. Fifty-seven members of the National Guard and Reserves lost their lives in service. As we recognize the 10th anniversary of the contributions of the National Guard and Reserve to Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield, let us also remember and honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation. From enforcing the no-fly zone over Northern Iraq to supporting activities of Southern Watch, Guard and Reservists continue to support military operations in Southwest Asia. With 47 percent of the Army's combat support service units in the Reserves, the Guard and Reserves are increasingly becoming vital to the security of our country. As President Clinton recently said, the ``reserves are essential to America's military strength; they are part of the total force we bring to bear whenever our men and women in uniform are called to action.'' In the years following the activation for the Desert Shield and Desert Storm the country has called upon its Reservists repeatedly. In Haiti we called some 8,000 to active duty. For peacekeeping operations in Bosnia, we have called over 19,000 to date, and with volunteers, we have cycled over 32,000 Guard and Reserve members through Bosnia. Mr. Speaker, we will continue to call upon them. The bottom line is that today we simply cannot undertake sustained operations anywhere in the world without the Guard and Reserve. Let me pay tribute to the 267,000 Guard and Reservists who served during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm as we recognize the 10th anniversary of their activation, and thank the 1.3 million Ready Reservists who are currently serving for their dedication and sacrifice.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Taylor), one of the cosponsors of the resolution.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton), the ranking member of the Committee on Armed Services.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer).

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Mascara) who, as has been mentioned, has particular reason to speak today.