WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today on the Defense Appropriations Act, which passed by a vote of 395 to 34.

"The Defense Appropriations Act makes critical investments in the success, health, well-being, and training of our men and women in uniform. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines bear the burden of our security with courage, honor, and bravery.

"This legislation gives our troops a raise and continues to pay them an extra $500 for every month their term of service is involuntarily extended by the 'stop loss' practice. It ensures that our military has first-class equipment and armor to succeed on the battlefield, and increases the readiness and training crucial to the success of our troops around the world.

"To meet the needs of our troops and their families, it strengthens DOD health care with added focus on the signature injuries of the Iraq War, such as Traumatic Brain Injury. Recognizing that long tours of duty abroad take a toll on the soldiers' loved ones at home, this bill funds quality child care for military families, job training for spouses, and expanded counseling for the husbands, wives, sons and daughters experiencing the separation and stress of war.

"The Defense Appropriations Act keeps our promise to support those who answer the call to serve and fight to preserve the safety of every American. Our commitment to these men and women is - and will continue to be - unwavering. Their service and sacrifice demand nothing less."

SOURCE Office of the Speaker of the House