WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, cosponsored bipartisan legislation honoring the service and sacrifice of members of the United States Armed Forces who are deployed or who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan or Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn in Iraq.  

"Our cherished freedoms are secured through the sacrifices of our servicemembers. We honor and respect them and their families for their selfless service. These American heroes are celebrated for their dedication and risking their lives to defend the interests of our nation, some paying the ultimate sacrifice. We owe these men and women a debt of gratitude and we remain committed to supporting them for answering the call to protect our country and everything it stands for,” Boozman said. 

Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Ranking Member Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-GA) and House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Rep. Jeff Miller (FL-01) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral resolution. 

“The men and women in our country who have answered the call of duty of the United States have made tremendous sacrifices in leaving their homes and their families to serve our nation. In some cases, they have paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Isakson said. “I hope all Americans will join me in honoring the brave members of our Armed Forces who deeply deserve our gratitude for ensuring the safety and security of our country and our cherished freedoms.” 

“America’s Armed Forces personify patriotism, service, duty, and courage. We, as a Nation, should never take for granted that our freedom is not free. It is paid for through the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform and their families. Through this Resolution, we call on all citizens of the United States to honor the 2 million service members who have fought for us in Iraq and Afghanistan, and to support their families here at home. We especially keep the families of the fallen in our hearts, and those who have been wounded in defense of our Nation in our prayers,” Miller said. 

More than 2 million members of the United States Armed Forces have deployed to theaters of war since the commencement of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn, and many have been deployed for multiple tours of duty. More than 5,500 troops have been killed while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, and tens of thousands have been seriously wounded in the line of duty. 

Boozman and Isakson are joined by Senators Begich (D-AK), Brown (R-MA), Burr (R-NC), Johanns (R-NE), Moran (R-KS), Murray (D, WA), Sanders (I-VT), and Webb (D-VA) in cosponsoring S.Con.Res.13.