Mr. JONES of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Madam Speaker, I want to thank Mr. Murphy for his service to this Nation and for introducing H. Con. Res. 162.

Throughout the history of this great Nation, men and women have chosen to put on the uniform and defend the principles upon which this country was built. The dedication of our men and women to our Nation should never be overlooked, and we, as a Congress, should encourage the next generation of Americans to do the same.

However, there exists an inequity in pay between those who serve in our Armed Forces and those in the civilian sector.

For several years, the civilian pay increase rate has remained 4 percent, which Congressman Murphy mentioned, above that of the military. It is time to end this inequity. H. Con. Res. 162 will help bring this inequity to a close by calling on Congress to voice their support for our servicemembers.

This Nation relies on our military to defend its citizens against enemies both foreign and domestic, and have done so with honor and integrity; but they do not fight these battles alone. Our military families provide them much-needed support in these difficult times. As was said earlier, nearly 40 percent of the members of the Armed Forces who are deployed leave their families and children behind them. There are more than 3 million family members and dependents of those serving on active duty and in the Reserve.

For far too long, Congress has not made this a top priority. That is why I join with my colleague, Representative Patrick Murphy, and all of those in both parties who want this to be a number one issue for those in uniform and their families. Matching the increase is not sufficient. We must close the gap.