(Nov. 10, 2003) -- An $87.5 billion administration-sought spending package for military and reconstruction operations in Iraq and Afghanistan (one of the largest military and foreign aid spending measures in U.S. history) includes an amendment successfully brought by Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, (D., LB-Carson) allocating $42 million to provide counseling for returning U.S. soldiers and their families.

The Millender-McDonald amendment directs the Department of Defense to re-program $42 million from the Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide account to DoD's Family Advocacy Program, providing support services, including counseling, to military personnel and their families transitioning from the frontline back to the homefront.

"Our military personnel are under intense pressure in both Iraq and Afghanistan and around the globe, and likewise are their families here at home," said Cong. Millender-McDonald in a written release.

"Each morning Americans wake up and hear the status report on our troops in Iraq, and the reports have not been good. Each morning, we hear that one, two, three or more of our brave men and woman have been killed by hostile fire. Given the intense pressures and anxieties inherent in this type of combat, we must ensure that when our troops return home, their emotional needs and those of their families are effectively addressed," she added.

As previously reported by LBReport.com (click to view), Cong. Millender-McDonald was among the dignitaries taking part in LB's Nov. 8 Veterans Day parade.