Chat with Chic, February 21, 1985

Chat with Chic A Report from Washington FEBRUARY 21, 1985 by U. S. SENATOR CHIC HECHT Congress is back in session following the traditional recess honoring George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The budget is the main order of business and tax simplification, although a major goal of the Reagan Administration, will have to play second fiddle while we all face the problem of the budget deficit. During the recess, I travelled through much of Nevada meeting with constituents and making Lincoln Day speeches in Hawthorne, Winnemucca and Fallon. Everywhere I found strong support for our military establishments, not only because of their economic value to our State, but mainly because they are an important part of our overall defense system. The Fallon Naval Air Station, the Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, the Hawthorne Ammunition Depot and the Nevada Test Site each helps make America stronger and safer. I'm gratified so many fellow Nevadans understand the critical nature of these installations. During my speeches, I noted that some people, including some of our own state officials, have taken a "cynical" view of patriotism. To them, love of country is old-fashioned and out-of-date. These detractors of patriotism have somehow forgotten history. This attitude shows a tragic arrogance without value ? an arrogance of ignorance. It is said that good judgement comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgement. In my view, those who downgrade devotion to our country surely are under-going a dangerous experience based on bad judgement. We, as Nevadans, should be proud, not critical, of the fact that we are contributing to the defense and security of America. How can politicians say we've already done enough for America? Sure, those of us in Congress have an obligation to oversee how defense dollars are spend and to reduce waste. But if the new Armed Services Committee Chairman Barry Goldwater has his way, many military establishments may soon be merged or closed down, especially in areas where area residents don't want them. Senator Goldwater is dead serious about this and some of our political leaders should use caution in speaking out in critical terms of our own such facilities. * * * * * * * * * * * *