Dear Mr. (Transphysixed):
Thank you for taking the time to contact me with your concerns. I appreciate hearing from you and welcome this opportunity to respond.
On January 29, 2008, the City Council of Berkeley, California, voted to advise their local Marine recruiting office that it is not welcome in the city. In response, Senator Jim DeMint (R-
SC) introduced S. 2596, the Semper Fi Act of 2008, on February 6, 2008. If passed, this legislation would rescind all earmarks for the city of Berkeley or any entity located in Berkeley included in the
2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill, and transfer those funds to the Marine Corps.
I agree that the actions of the Berkeley City Council were offensive and disrespectful, and we should honor those who have fought for and secured our freedom. While the Council's actions were improper, we should consider those who will be affected by the loss of funds who had no control over the Council's decision.
The legislation Senator DeMint has proposed would take funding from programs for school lunches, disability organizations, and local police and fire departments.
Please be assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind as the Senate considers this issue. Again, thank you for contacting me.
Sincerely,
Herb Kohl
U.S. Senator
Shawn is currently a student at the University of Wisconsin - Madison and majoring in electrical engineering. He has served three combat tours in Iraq with the Marine Corps.
