Johnson thanked the Sailors and Marines for their service and told them about the benefits included in the Defense Budget now awaiting congressional approval. There's also the Thrift Savings Plan in this Year's Defense Bill. The plan, long advocated by CNO, allows service members to contribute via payroll deduction into a tax-deferred account. Adm. Johnson also recognized the Naval Air Station's ombudsmen for their dedication to meeting the needs of Navy families. You are to be commended for your efforts.
Today is National Ombudsman Appreciation Day.
The U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet is contributing limited, but essential forces to the Australian-led UN effort in East Timor. The Pacific Fleet also has two ships prepared to provide helicopter support, if required. U.S. President Bill Clinton said helping to resolve the crisis in Indonesia, the fourth most populace nation in the world, is in America's interest. All Asians and Americans have an interest in a stable, democratic, prosperous Indonesia. The election on Aug. 30 was conducted fairly under the leadership of the United Nations with the agreement of the Indonesian government.