Statement by Congressman Ruppersberger About H.R. 627, Condemning the Abuse of Iraqi Prisoners
The following is a statement by Congressman Ruppersberger:
"Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 627."
"I was outraged when I saw the photographs of American Service Members physically and mentally abusing Iraqi prisoners being held at the Abu Ghraib Prison. This is not what America is all about."
"An investigation into this situation is already underway. I believe we need to get to the bottom of what went on and hold the people who committed these horrid acts accountable for their actions. We also need to see if there was a lack of proper training or supervision."
"We need to follow the chain of command to see if leaders were aware of this behavior, turned a blind eye to it, or encouraged it. The system obviously broke down and we need to find out why so we can prevent it from happening again."
"I think it is unfortunate that a small group of soldiers who acted horribly are tarnishing the reputations of tens of thousands of American military personnel who are acting honorably... who are doing their jobs... who are helping Iraqis take back their country... who are putting their lives on the line for our liberties and freedom. We applaud their hard work."
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