Our nation is entering the third week of battle in Iraq.  Our brave servicemen and women are carrying out a dangerous mission, while families here in Ventura County and across the country await their safe and speedy return.

From the beginning, I have opposed going to war.  Last October, when the Administration sought approval from Congress for the use of preemptive military force against Iraq, I voted no.  There was never any doubt that Saddam Hussein is a ruthless and deadly dictator who must be disarmed.  But I advocated for the U.S. to exhaust all possible diplomatic options, and to build a strong coalition of support through our allies and the United Nations before such unprecedented action was taken.  

Nevertheless, Congress gave the President the authorization he sought, and now we are at war.  I stand behind our troops one hundred percent.  My thoughts and prayers are with them and their families here at home.  Each day, we see the horrors of war unfold on television as our soldiers proceed on a mission more dangerous than many imagined.  Like all Americans, I hope the war ends quickly, with as little loss of life on both sides as humanly possible.  It is also incumbent on the Administration to honor its commitment to provide for the massive humanitarian needs of the Iraqi people.

Here in Ventura County, the war has hit close to home.  1,200 Seabees and 600 E-2 Squadron personnel from Naval Base Ventura County have been deployed to Iraq and are serving with honor and distinction.  Many other local residents from different branches of the military are engaged as well.  One local family has suffered the grievous loss of a courageous marine -- who was a husband, son, and father of four. 

Some may say it is a contradiction to have voted against the war and still support our troops.  It is not.  My husband Walter Capps taught a class at University of California, Santa Barbara for decades about the hardships faced by Vietnam veterans returning from a war so many opposed.  He taught us all that indeed it is possible to oppose the war but support the warrior.  While our nation may be divided on the questions of policy that led us to war, we must stand united behind the men and women who wear our uniform. 

As the war continues overseas, I remain very concerned about related issues here at home.  I am working to increase homeland security.  Our nation is still vulnerable to terrorism, and I am a strong advocate for more resources to secure our ports and borders and support the first responders who will protect our communities in an emergency.

Today’s soldiers are tomorrow’s veterans, and I am deeply disturbed by the Congressional leadership’s efforts to slash veterans’ benefits.  This is unconscionable, and I will fight these cuts as hard as I can.  By supporting our veterans, we truly honor the bravery and service of the men and women who currently wear our uniform and risk their lives for our nation.

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