Gregory Laughlin: “as an officer in the active and Reserve U.S. Army for over 30 years, I rise in support of H.R. 3230. I would like to…”

“as an officer in the active and Reserve U.S. Army for over 30 years, I rise in support of H.R. 3230. I would like to begin by thanking Chairman Spence and Chairman Dornan for their support of title 12 of the defense authorization bill, known as the Reserve Revitalization Act of 1996. They recognize the vitality and importance of our Reserve components in the national defense of the United States. On behalf of my fellow reservists and guardsmen, I can tell you that their devotion to our Nation's citizen-soldiers is known and very appreciated. In particular, I would like to express my appreciation to Congressman Sonny Montgomery. Without Mr. Montgomery's support of the Revitalization Act and his years of dedication to the national security of our great land, our country would be a very different place. I also would like to thank my friend from New Jersey, Mr. Saxton, for withdrawing his amendment to the defense authorization bill. I believe it is important that my fellow Members understand why it is so important that the Army Reserve report directly to the chief of Staff of the Army. Simply stated, this will improve the readiness of the Army Reserve. Of all the Reserve components, the U.S. Army Reserve has the lowest readiness of any of our military Reserve commands. I agree with Mr. Skelton that the Army Reserve readiness has improved somewhat. But this improvement is not because of its command relationship with forscom. It is because of congressional pressure.”