It is day nine of the government shutdown, and it’s starting to feel like a drama that just won’t end. As the clock ticks, there’s a looming threat that active duty military members could miss their first paycheck next week if Congress decides to stick to its stubborn ways. These brave troops, including those deployed in the Caribbean battling drug trafficking, stationed in the Middle East safeguarding U.S. interests, and moving about the vast Pacific to deter China, are about to face a tough dilemma. Despite their essential role in maintaining national security, they may have to work without pay during this government standoff.

With over 1.3 million service members across branches like the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, this shutdown impacts a massive group of dedicated individuals. Not to mention, hundreds of National Guard troops stationed in places like Washington D.C., California, and Illinois are also caught in this bureaucratic mess. These men and women, who put their lives on the line for their country, deserve to be paid for their hard work, regardless of what’s happening on Capitol Hill. The National Guard Association and other organizations are stepping up, urging Congress to pass a standalone bill ensuring that all military personnel receive their paychecks even during this shutdown.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has acknowledged the importance of this issue and indicated that he is open to bringing a bill to the floor to protect military pay. This isn’t just any bill; it’s a lifesaver for the troops who depend on their salaries to support their families and maintain some semblance of financial stability. After all, in 2013, prior to another government shutdown, Congress showed that bipartisanship could happen by passing a similar bill to ensure that military members received their checks while other government funds were drying up.

But time is ticking away, and urgency is in the air. The soldiers, sailors, and airmen are not just numbers; they are hardworking individuals with lives, families, and obligations. It should be a top priority to ensure they don’t suffer financially due to political disagreements. No one wants to imagine troops deployed overseas worrying about how they’ll make their mortgage payment or buy groceries while they’re risking everything for their country.

With the stakes this high, all eyes are on Congress. The nation is hopeful that lawmakers will set aside their differences and prioritize those who serve and protect. After all, when it comes to national security, everyone should be on the same team. It’s time for some action—let’s get those paychecks sorted so that our heroes can focus on their mission without the stress of financial uncertainty hanging over their heads.