WASHINGTON, DC – Calling it an important step in protecting the interests and defense of the United States, US Rep. Ron Paul praised the House for approving by an overwhelming majority an amendment Wednesday night to the Department of Defense’s Fiscal year 1999 authorization legislation (HR3616, the National Defense Authorization Act). The amendment passed 250 to 172.

The amendment, introduced by Rep. Joel Hefley (R-Colo.), prohibits the use of Department of Defense funds or personnel from being used in a proposed “United Nations Rapidly Deployable Mission Headquarters,” which UN officials have said is the first step in creating a standing UN military force to be under the command of the UN Secretary-General and based in New York. The Clinton Administration has admitted to using DoD funds in the past for this project.

“The idea of a UN military force is repugnant to Americans. But even worse is the thought that this UN army would be stationed on our land, potentially mobilizing our sons and daughters, using our money, but without anyone in Congress having any oversight,” said Paul after the measure passed.

In his comments on the House floor, Paul said using Defense funds and personnel to equip a UN military force is not only an unconstitutional use of taxpayer resources and military personnel, but weakens America’s defense.

“I’m glad that so many of my colleagues agreed that it is time we stopped handing our sovereignty over to the UN; we have drawn a line in the sand and said, ‘No more.’ Every dollar we hand over to the UN is a dollar not being used to protect our borders and interests,” said Paul, a former Air Force flight surgeon. And every soldier we transfer under their command is one more American soldier who will be placed in harms’ way for reasons other than defending his nation and liberty.”

Members of Congress were upset to learn that the Administration, without congressional approval, has already been using DoD funds to help create this new UN army.

“The overall Defense authorization bill has some real problems, and continues some very bad, interventionist policies. But this amendment, ensuring the safety of American citizens, soldiers and interests, is a very good first step.”

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