Fort Hood Families Benefits Protection Act

The shooting at Fort Hood on November 5th took the lives of thirteen brave men and women. Like everyone around the nation and in the 19th Congressional District, I was deeply saddened by the events that unfolded at Fort Hood. It is a tragedy we will never forget.

Because this was an act of terror in our own backyard, I believe the Army and civilian personnel who were wounded or killed in the shooting attack on Fort Hood should be granted the same benefits and recognition as combat casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan. I have joined with my fellow Texan, Congressman Carter, in a bi-partisan effort to introduce H.R. 4088, the Fort Hood Families Benefits Protection Act. This bill would ensure that the members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense who were killed or wounded in the shootings at Fort Hood receive the same level of benefits as those who are killed or wounded in a terrorist attack or while serving on active duty with the Armed Forces.

H.R. 4088 is an important step in protecting these families who might not otherwise see maximum life insurance payments in addition to other benefits. The bill would also allow for the fallen military personnel to receive the Purple Heart, and civilians to receive the Medal of Freedom.

My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families of these victims, and those who were wounded in this violent attack. We will never forget their sacrifices. May God continue to watch over the Fort Hood family.

Click here to read the full text of H.R. 4088.