Defense spending plans send strong signal

Saying America "won't cut corners" in the war against terrorism, President Bush is proposing a $48 billion increase in defense spending.

If approved by Congress, it would be the largest increase in spending for the Pentagon budget since Ronald Reagan was president.

It is a necessary first step for the country.

"I have a responsibility to prepare the nation for what lies ahead," Bush told the Reserve Officers Association. "The most basic commitment of our government will be the security of our country."

Bush said the extra money would go toward missile defense, pay increases for service personnel and acquisition of precision weaponry, unmanned vehicles and high-tech equipment. The extra money will include a $10 billion war reserve for active military operations overseas.

We expect that Congress will approve the extra funds.

Making this proposal is still more evidence of the president's deadly seriousness in prosecuting the war on terrorism and safeguarding our domestic security.