Freedom Isn't Free

March 5, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), a 24-year Army veteran, joined House Republican leadership at a press conference honoring America’s heroes and emphasizing the need to fund the Department of Homeland Security amid rising threats from Iran and its proxies. Excerpts from Miller-Meeks' Remarks: "The freedoms we cherish, the freedom to speak our minds, the freedom of the press, the freedom to pursue the American Dream, are not guaranteed by words on paper alone. They are secured by the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who wear the uniform of the United States." She continued: "As a 24-year Army Veteran, the wife of a 30-year year Army Veteran, and the daughter of a Veteran... I know that truth all too well." Miller-Meeks also honored the lives of the two Iowa soldiers killed by Iranian strikes in Kuwait: "Maj. Jeffrey R. O’Brien of Indianola and Sgt. Declan J. Coady of West Des Moines were sons of Iowa, soldiers who stepped forward to defend our nation and protect the freedoms we hold dear. Because of heroes like them, America has stood for nearly 250 years as the freedom capital of the world, a beacon of hope where liberty still shines bright." To watch Congresswoman Miller-Meeks' full remarks, click HERE . ### Issues : Defense and National Security