Defense & the Military

One of the most important jobs I have as your representative is to provide for the “common defense” of this great nation. That Congressional responsibility is clearly stated in our Constitution, and as a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I take that task very seriously.

Today our service men and women remain actively involved in combat operations. They fight an enemy that threatens free people everywhere. Yet, these threats to our freedom are not new. The face has changed, but the threat remains and will thrive as long as tyrants and totalitarian ideology exists. It is, however, a long, generational struggle in which we find ourselves. Our struggle will not end with the eradication of Al Qaeda from Iraq or the Taliban from Afghanistan, but it will continue to be reduced and our national security ensured as we take the fight to the enemy and prevent them from returning to our shores.

How we fight the threats against our freedoms will change, but the need for a strong military will not. This is why I will work with my colleagues to provide our armed forces with the resources they need to grow a force that can fight the unconventional enemy we see today but not leave us vulnerable to conventional threats that may surface tomorrow.

I support our troops and the numerous missions they are performing around the globe creating a more secure world and ensuring our safety. They deserve our thanks and gratitude for serving selflessly and sacrificing – at times – everything. Know that, along with the efforts of our coalition partners and the proud Iraqi and Afghan people, they are making a difference in this world.

To the military families and friends who offer their endless support and steadfast resolve, I thank you, too.

In the 11th District of Texas, we are also proud of our men and women of Goodfellow Air Force Base, home to the 17th Training Wing. Goodfellow has the critical mission of training our service men and women in several intelligence disciplines, as well as basic and advanced fire protection for all military branches. The men and women of Goodfellow are dedicated, bright professionals and valued members of Concho Valley and the San Angelo community. Their jobs are crucial to the continued success of our military in the Global War on Terrorism, and we support them whole-heartedly.

Texans have a long and proud tradition of military service, and your service and sacrifice will not be forgotten. I do ask that if you are not currently serving, find a way to support the troops or serve in a different capacity. National defense does not depend solely on the effectiveness and strength of our military but also on the diverse contributions and allegiance of a strong American people.

I am proud and honored to represent Goodfellow and the 11th District of Texas in Congress and on the House Armed Services Committee.

Mike Conaway | 11th District of Texas

Defense & the Military

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