Democrats Demand Ohio Soldiers Receive Adequate Body Armor Before Going to Iraq

Take action by   Friday, December 31, 2004

COLUMBUS - American soldiers are attempting to keep the peace in Iraq without the adequate lifesaving body armor they are required. Ohio Democratic lawmakers are demanding an end to this irresponsible policy. The Department of Defense acknowledged it has not met its self- imposed deadline to have all soldiers and contractors fitted with Interceptor body armor, which is lightweight and capable of stopping the rounds fired by those attacking U.S. military personnel in Iraq. Ohio Senate Democrats have submitted Senate Bill 177, calling on the state to provide the Ohio National Guard the funds to outfit each Ohioan sent into battle with Interceptor body armor. But Senate Republicans who control the Ohio Senate have ignored the bill. Sen. Marc Dann has created a website, soldierfirst.com that will provide Ohioans a complete update on the body armor situation. It will also soon have a link to an online petition allowing all Ohioans to call upon their lawmakers to make this vital investment in the protection of our troops.