Awesome privilege and responsibility of sustaining the great experiment of democratic selfgovernment. May they be reminded always of who they are. May they be open to your inspiration, that they might overcome the temptation to work through the issues of this day on their own strength and cleverness. Grant them wisdom, insight, and vision, that the work they do will be for the betterment of our nation during a time of struggle for so many millions of americans. May they earn the trust and respect of those they represent, whether or not they had earned their vote, and make history that expands the great legacy of so many who have served in this chamber before now a legacy of noble service, sometimes political risk, but always great leadership. May all that is done this day be for your greater honor and glory. Amen. The president pro tempore please join me in reciting the pledge of allegiance to our flag. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of america and to the republic
Financial service. I working with others in this body have worked hard to bring this to a vote. Yesterday the house took action. Now im pleased to be able to tell those arkansans and all veterans that the senate has followed suit and has corrected this injustice. However, we must working to fully repeal the section of the bipartisan budget agreement that reduces retirement pay for those who enlist after january 1, 2013. Any changes congress may consider to our military compensation system should be done in a thoughtful and responsible matter in the context of a broader compensation system. I supported this bill that was before the senate today to restore the full cost of living adjustment for those enlisted prior to 2014, but will continue working fully to repeal this cut that singles out current military enlistments to bear the burden of wasteful washington spending. We need to right this wrong so veterans and their sphreams one less thing to worry about. However, this overwhelming vo