Matheson backs funding for war

WASHINGTON — Rep. Jim Matheson supports an $81 billion supplemental funding bill for the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, saying it provides even more money than President Bush requested for protective gear for the troops.

HR1268 is the third major supplemental appropriations bill to come to Congress since military operations began in Iraq.

"I am reminded every day that brave Utah men and women are doing their jobs in very dangerous parts of the world. I want them to have whatever they need to complete their mission and return safely to their families," Matheson, D-Utah, said.

Matheson notes the bill provides $18.2 billion to replenish equipment and munitions used in Iraq and in the global war on terrorism. Much of the increased amount is for Army and Marine Corps force-protection measures, including additional trucks, truck and body armor, night-vision goggles and electronic roadside-bomb jammers. The bill also includes $5.7 billion to train and equip Iraqi security forces — including military, protective services, border patrol and police.

The bill increases insurance and death benefits for the families of soldiers who died or were killed on active duty since Oct. 7, 2001.