Brian Jones: “I rise today to talk about an issue of deep importance to our country and my fellow Alabamians, and I follow my…”

“I rise today to talk about an issue of deep importance to our country and my fellow Alabamians, and I follow my colleague, Senator Lankford, who spoke with such eloquence on national security. This week, we are debating the National Defense Authorization Act, which funds our Nation's defense programs for the coming year. Like Senator Lankford, I want to thank Chairman McCain and Ranking Member Reed for their work on this incredible and important legislation, as well as Senator Inhofe. He has done such yeoman's work in Senator McCain's absence. This bill has tremendous implications for our country, both abroad and here at home. In Alabama, we know all too well about the need for national security and a good economy. From Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville to Fort Rucker, from Maxwell Air Force Base to the Anniston Army Depot and all of our Reserve and National Guard men and women in the State of Alabama--they are on the frontlines. In addition to the tens of thousands of civilians who support their work--Alabama is home to a first-class workforce that supports our national security mission every single day. So it only makes sense that this legislation continues to support the work of Alabamians and includes a well- deserved 2.6-percent pay raise for our troops. Just as important, it also includes funds for the Missile Defense Agency at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville. It increases space defense funding, which is so important to our Air Force.…”