Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) released the following statement on the arrival of evacuees from Afghanistan at New Jersey Joint Base MDL:
      
          “There is a both a compelling need and moral obligation to provide immediate safe haven and humanitarian aid to the refugees fleeing the unspeakable cruelty, violence and terrorism perpetrated by the Taliban in Afghanistan owing to President Biden’s disastrous August 31st exit strategy.

          “Many of these individuals and families arriving at the Joint Base provided vital assistance to our brave servicemen and women who served in Afghanistan fighting the war against terrorism and now need the U.S. to fulfill our promise to protect them from the Taliban.

          “As the process to assist and relocate the Afghan refugees gets underway, the outstanding men and women of the Joint Base are playing a critical role in this humanitarian crisis by meeting the basic needs of temporary housing, food, medical care, resettlement assistance and transportation.

          “Also, in welcoming these evacuees upon their arrival in the U.S., it remains essential that comprehensive vetting occurs to ensure that no terrorists slip into American communities. 

          “I commend the leadership of Colonel Adams and have volunteered my assistance to him and the Joint Base.

          “New Jersey residents and families have already begun to demonstrate their compassion and empathy for the Afghan evacuees by reaching out to offer generous donations and supplies.”

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