Statement by Senator Dianne Feinstein
On the Pentagon's Decision to Cut Pay of
U.S. Troops in Iraq
August 14, 2003

"I wish to indicate my strong opposition to reports that the Pentagon wants to cut the pay of our 148,000 troops stationed in Iraq and 9,000 in Afghanistan. These brave men and women live under the constant threat of attack, are separated from their families, battle disease and severe weather conditions, and deserve the unwavering support and gratitude of the federal government.

Since May 1, when the President proclaimed an end to major hostilities, hardly a day goes by without a soldier being killed or wounded in Iraq. Their enemies use hit-and-run guerrilla tactics, suicide and car bombs. Yet the Department of Defense seems to believe that these men and women warrant a $75 per month cut in 'imminent danger pay' and $150 per month cut 'family separation allowances.' I couldn't disagree more, and I believe that our forces in Iraq and Afghanistan remain very much in harm's way and have more than earned the extra $225 a month.

To date, nearly half of those killed in Iraq were either from California or based in California. They include immigrants granted posthumous citizenship and direct descendants of our Founding Fathers. No State has given more.

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will do everything in my power to see that our troops and their families are fully compensated for their service to our country."

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