– National security is a top priority for Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) and this week he supported a resolution condemning North Korea for development of missiles and toured Guantánamo Bay to get an update on the effectiveness of the facility.

H. Res. 92, “Condemning North Korea's development of multiple intercontinental ballistic missiles,” passed by a bi-partisan vote of 398-3 and not only condemns North Korea’s development of ballistic missiles, but also re-affirms the commitment of the United States to developing and employing a missile defense system capable of protecting our friends and allies. The legislation also urges the Government of China to pressure North Korea to cease their program and calls for economic sanctions by the United States and other countries.

“We know that North Korea possesses a ballistic missile and nuclear weapon development program, which poses serious threats to the United States, South Korea, and our allies. Further, they have collaborated with other countries of equal concern, such as Iran and Syria,” said Congressman Bacon. “North Korea will only continue to develop ballistic missiles capable of targeting America unless countered or deterred.”

 “Of equal concern to America are terrorist leaders who have already demonstrated the intent to attack and destroy America.  This week, I toured Guantanamo Bay where we are still holding 41 of the most dangerous terrorist masterminds since the 9/11 attacks,” said Congressman Bacon. “Most of the 41 detainees remain dedicated to the destruction of America.  About one-third of the Guantanamo Bay detainees who were previously released have rejoined the fight against us and our Allies.”

Last Monday, Congressman Bacon participated in a bi-partisan delegation of ten Members of Congress who toured the facility. The 41 still held today include those who masterminded the 9/11 attacks that killed almost 3,000 Americans, the organizer of the attack on the USS Cole that killed 17 of our sailors, and other high-level detainees who directly led deadly attacks in other parts of the world.

“We must ensure none of the 41 are released to again kill Americans citizens or our Allies,” said Congressman Bacon. “It is time to move forward and deliver justice to the planners who killed thousands of our citizens.  We must hold these murderers accountable.”  

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