Jim Ryun: “As a freshman member of the Committee on National Security, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1119, the fiscal year 1998…”

“As a freshman member of the Committee on National Security, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1119, the fiscal year 1998 National Defense Authorization Act. Although hampered by a limited budget, this bill funds quality of life initiatives, modernization efforts and reforms to increase efficiency, and cut waste in the Defense Department. Unfortunately, the President's request for military construction, which includes family housing, was 16 percent below current spending levels. This bill, however, adds $750 million to his request. Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth, which are in the Second District of Kansas, are historic posts that were built over 100 years ago to help open and expand the American frontier. Unfortunately, many of the buildings at the post date from the era when General Custer left Fort Riley to ride off to the Little Big Horn battle. Corroding pipes, lead paint, aging plumbing and electrical systems are some of the problems plaguing these structures. It is simply not right to require our service men and women to live and work in these conditions.”