Political Quotes

“I rise today to discuss several issues of importance to the future of our Nation's military. The National Defense Authorization Act before us this year will affect the size and strength of the U.S. Armed Forces and the resources and programs available to our service members and their families. According to GEN Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, ``capability is more important than size.'' As the size of our military begins to decrease, there is more need than ever to ensure that they have the right equipment to fulfill their missions. Therefore, I am pleased that the committee has given the Pentagon the authority through this bill to negotiate multiyear procurements for the military's workhorse, the CH-47 Chinook, and for the V-22 Osprey and the unique capabilities it brings to the field. I also want to note my frustration with the Army's lack of strategic and long-term thinking related to armored combat vehicles. The Army's desire to temporarily cease production of tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles without long- term plans as to what will replace them is nonsense. These proposals, should they be approved, jeopardize the Nation's combat vehicle industrial base, our national security and the livelihoods of many individuals throughout the Nation. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy both in Pennsylvania and across the Nation.…”