Released: 17 Dec 1998
The resolution "expresses the strong support of the Congress for the courageous, patriotic and dedicated service of our men and women in uniform," according to Rep. Floyd Spence, R-S.C., chairman of the House National Security Committee and co-sponsor of the measure.
The resolution expresses "unequivocal support for the men and women of our Armed Forces who are currently carrying out missions in and around the Persian Gulf region."
"Once again," Spence added, "the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines of the United States armed forces have demonstrated that they comprise the finest military in the world."
His words echoed those of President Clinton a day earlier. Announcing Operation Desert Fox, the commander in chief talked about sending U.S. forces into action.
"The decision to use force is never cost-free," Clinton said. "Whenever American forces are placed in harm's way, we risk the loss of life."
Yet, he concluded, the price of doing nothing would be too high.
"Heavy as they are, the costs of action must be weighed against the price of inaction," the president said. "If Saddam defies the world and we fail to respond, we will face a far greater threat in the future.
"Saddam will strike again at his neighbors; he will make war on his own people. And mark my words, he will develop weapons of mass destruction. He will deploy them, and he will use them. Because we are acting today, it is less likely that we will face these dangers in the future."
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