Rob Portman: “I am on the floor today to talk about the annual National Defense Authorization Act to support our servicemembers and…”

“I am on the floor today to talk about the annual National Defense Authorization Act to support our servicemembers and their families. This is one of the few things that the Senate actually passes and does so on a bipartisan basis, and I am hopeful we will do that again. It is because Republicans and Democrats alike recognize it is imperative to give the men and women serving in our Armed Forces the resources and support they need to carry out their critical missions for all of us. This year, I am pleased to recognize the importance of ensuring that our troops get compensated properly for the hard work and sacrifices they make. It has an across-the-board 3-percent pay increase in it. They deserve it. On July 4, as we celebrate 244 years of freedom, I think it is appropriate that we demonstrate our support for the brave men and women in uniform whose sacrifices have ensured the liberty we are celebrating. I am also pleased that there is a lot in here that is really important to the people I represent in Ohio. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, which is our State's largest single-site employer, the bill authorizes $23.5 million for important work on a new hydrant fuel system for the Defense Logistics Agency. It will make a big difference to our airmen and Air Force civilians and to the troops around the world who rely on DLA for their equipment and resources.…”