Likening a pact of support for veterans and soldiers’ families to the basic training pledge never to leave a buddy on the battlefield, Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., committed never to forget veterans if elected the next president of the United States.
“He’s never forgotten the veterans, and that’s one of the reasons he’s delighted you’re here, so he can say thank-you,” said Rep. Mark Smith, D-Marshalltown, in introducing the presidential candidate to Iowa Veterans Home residents during a tour of the facility Thursday.
“I’m very impressed. Wonderful opportunities are being afforded to veterans here,” Dodd said.
The senator, who served in the Peace Corps and National Guard, said he authored legislation creating the Family Medical Leave Act and has recently proposed six months of unpaid leave for caregivers of military soldiers returning from active duty.
“I think the stress coming back from Iraq is going to be profound,” he said. “When people say they’re concerned about veterans, I’m glad to hear it, but show me.”
“The military recruits a soldier, but it retains a family,” he added, noting that support for soldiers’ families is critical to maintaining the military’s strength.
Dodd also expressed a perspective on the Iraq war, volunteerism and defending the Constitution, among other issues.
“My life-changing experiences were as a volunteer,” he said. “... I want every person in the country to have the chance to serve this country.” . . .
