WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick (MI-13) saved more than 2,500 Michigan jobs by securing $312 million in funding for the Stryker Medical Evacuation Vehicle (MEV), which was designed, researched, developed, and constructed in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Federal funding will ensure continued employment for the 2,594 employees who make the Stryker MEV. The Emergency Supplemental 2009 bill passed the House yesterday by a vote of 226 to 202, and is now headed to the Senate for a final vote on the conference report.  

Congresswoman Kilpatrick led a campaign, including a letter dated April 3, 2009, signed by 118 Members of Congress to House Appropriations Committee Chairman John Murtha and Ranking Minority Member Bill Young, asking that Congress retain these funds.  Funding for the Stryker MEV was not included in the President’s request.

“At a time when Michigan is facing record unemployment and a dwindling manufacturing base, funding for the Stryker MEV, produced by members of the United Automobile Workers (UAW), is critical,” said Congresswoman Kilpatrick. “I am proud to have led efforts to ensure that the Stryker MEV continues to be made by Michigan workers. I commend and thank Chairman Murtha and Ranking Minority Member Young, along with the 118 Members of Congress who supported my effort.”  

The Stryker is the Army’s highest-priority production combat vehicle program and the centerpiece of the ongoing Army transformation. It has an integrated armor package, which protects soldiers against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rocket propelled grenades, and a variety of infantry weapons.

“The brave men and women serving our country deserve the best in care and protection,” said Congresswoman Kilpatrick. “Congress’ support of this bill will ensure that wounded servicemembers in combat can be transported to medical care quickly and safely.”