Defense
Strengthening Our Military and Helping Rhode Island Contribute to Our National Defense
The men and women of our Armed Forces risk their lives every day and do a superb job defending us. Senator Reed has worked hard to ensure that America's military remains the greatest fighting force in the world and that our soldiers, Marines, sailors, and airmen have the resources they need and the benefits they deserve.
A former infantry officer and commander of a paratrooper company in the 82nd Airborne, Reed successfully led the charge in Congress to increase the permanent size of the U.S. Army.
In an effort to strengthen our military's readiness and ensure we can respond to future threats, Reed authored an amendment to provide our land forces with more than $10 billion to repair and rehabilitate equipment worn out in operations.
He has also secured hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding to bolster Rhode Island's defense industry, create more high-paying jobs, and expand opportunities for local businesses. Rhode Island's defense industry workers make a valuable contribution to our national security. As a member of the Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, Reed has worked hard not only to maintain the U.S. Naval presence in Rhode Island, but to expand it during the last Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) round. For example, the Navy Supply Corps School, which was previously located in Athens, Georgia is moving to Naval Station Newport and will generate over $150 million in construction and vendor contracts.
A vigilant watchdog over Pentagon spending, Reed vigorously opposed building a costly and ineffective missile defense system because this money could be better spent on counter-terrorism efforts, our troops, and much needed equipment for our military.
He also opposed the Iraq war from the start and has consistently urged the Bush Administration to change course and begin a phased redeployment of our troops.
Learn more about Senator Reed's efforts to change course in Iraq and improve our homeland security.
Recent News:
Navy Supply Corps School Sails into Rhode Island
Armed Services Committee Approves Nearly $196 Million for Rhode Island in Defense Authorization Bill
Reed Statement on the President's Decision to Veto the National Defense Authorization Act
Reed Secures Nearly $50 Million for Rhode Island in 2008 Defense Appropriations Bill
U.S. Navy Awards RI Company a $24.5 Million Contract to Build a New Training Facility
Reed Secures $119 Million for Rhode Island in 2008 Defense Appropriations Bill
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