Torture Defined

TORTURE DEFINED -- (House of Representatives - September 25, 2006)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Merriam-Webster defines torture as ``the infliction of intense pain, as from burning, crushing, or wounding.'' I would challenge those who oppose America's strenuous interrogation of known terrorists to explain how sleep deprivation and forced standing fits this description.

The Islamofascist movement seeks the destruction of modern civilization. To accomplish this twisted goal, no means are off limits. Rules of war and international treaties do not apply. These barbarians target civilians, they eagerly blow up innocent children, they behead their captives.

Our men and women in uniform are fighting to protect our families and our homeland from these mass murderers. It is important that America maintain its high moral standing in the global community. An honest debate about the treatment of terrorist detainees is certainly in order. Still, we cannot forget that our freedoms are under siege. We must employ all appropriate means to eradicate terrorism and protect American families in the global war on terror.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11.

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