28 January 2005

Governor Sebelius honors the service of men and women in uniform
Governor Sebelius signs Kansas Military Bill of Rights 2005

Surrounded by men and women who serve in the military and their families, Governor Kathleen Sebelius today announced the Kansas Military Bill of Rights. Governor Sebelius was joined by Lt. Governor John Moore and Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting at the Wichita South Armory as she unveiled the elements of this initiative.

“Over the past few years, we have asked more of our men and women in uniform. This use of the Guard and Reserve troops is unlike we have ever seen before in Kansas. Yet their sacrifices too often go unnoticed, their dedication unheralded. These soldiers and their families have sacrificed greatly, not anticipating the duty for this length of time and the financial burdens it causes,” Gov. Sebelius said.

“As Commander in Chief of the Kansas National Guard, I believe it is time to honor their service. We must provide for our citizen soldiers and their families. We must protect them and their loved ones while they serve and protect us. As promised in my State of the State address, the Kansas Military Bill of Rights will ease the burden on members of the military and their families.”

Governor Sebelius signed Executive Directive 05-356 to extend support to the many state employees who serve in the National Guard and the Reserves. As part of the Bill of Rights, the state will make up the difference between military pay and allowances that National Guard members and reservists receive and their state salary when they were called to active duty.

In addition, a one-time payment of $1,000 will go to state employees upon their activation for 180 days or more. These payments will be made retroactively to all National Guard members and reservists who have been activated since September 11, 2001.

“The call to active duty places severe financial strains on many families, and we want to do what we can to reduce these pressures and to show our respect and appreciation,” Gov. Sebelius said.

Governor Sebelius urged full college tuition be granted to dependents of Kansas residents killed in the line of duty.

She also called for the Legislature to grant in-state tuition for military family members of soldiers and airmen who are stationed in Kansas and whose status might change due to new, out-of-state assignments.

“The men and women of the Kansas National Guard are proud to serve their country and their state. The Military Bill of Rights is a fitting way to honor their service and to let them know that they and their families are one of our top concerns,” said Maj. Gen. Bunting.

“We must continue taking steps to support our military families across the state,” said Lt. Gov. Moore, who also serves as Chair of the Governor’s Strategic Military Planning Commission. He concluded, “It’s the right thing to do.”