On the recordDecember 20, 2013
I rise today to welcome the final passage of the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act-- frequently referred to as the NDAA. I would like to thank Armed Services Committee Chairman Levin and Ranking Member Inhofe, as well as Chairman McKeon and Ranking Member Smith in the House of Representatives, for their tireless and collaborative efforts in securing this critical piece of legislation. Although the NDAA did not go through the optimal amendment process, its passage today extends the necessary authorities to implement our national security strategy and support and protect Colorado's military community. As we head into the second session of the 113th Congress, I hope that we will remain mindful of the importance of a full and robust debate and ensure that the 2015 NDAA is open to amendments on the floor of the Senate. As the chairman of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, I also want to thank my friend and colleague on the committee, Ranking Member Sessions. Senator Sessions has a long tenure on the subcommittee, and I have benefited from his experience. I am grateful for the collegiality he has shown over the past year, and I look forward to starting our work together again in the next session. I would also like to recognize the staff of the subcommittee for their tremendous support and dedication. For Senator Sessions and his subcommittee staff, I want to thank Dr.…





