Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright introduced a resolution that seeks to amend the House Rules to require a reading of the names of members of the Armed Forces who died in the previous month as a result of combat operations.  The bipartisan resolution was introduced with the support of 16 colleagues, 8 Republican and 8 Democratic.

“For the many in the world to live free we must rely upon the sacrifices of the few in our Armed Services.  The heroism of our service members must not be forgotten and this resolution would pay tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives and also to the families of those fallen service members,” said Cartwright.  “We shall not forget their sacrifice—they gave their lives for this country.”

The United States Armed Forces has suffered 2284 casualties (as of November 8) as a result of combat operations in Afghanistan.  Every Monday, our service members deployed to Afghanistan stand as the Commander of International Security Assistance Force, Afghanistan reads the names of recent American casualties.  This solemn moment is recognition of their service and sacrifice.

The legislation has been introduced with the support of 8 Veterans’ and Service Member organizations.  Vice Admiral Norb Ryan (USN-Ret), President of the Military Officers Association of America’s praised the resolution, “having the names of our Nation’s deceased heroes read aloud in the House of Representatives would be a symbolic measure honoring those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.” 

“The Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) is pleased to support the resolution introduced by Representative Cartwright.  In light of Veteran’s Day this week, this resolution is an excellent way to honor our Nation’s service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation,” said Anthony A. Wallis, Legislative Director for the Association of the United States Navy.