INCLUDES FUNDING SOUGHT BY STEARNS FOR TWO IMPORTANT LOCAL DEFENSE PROJECTS

Washington, Sep 26, 2006 - "The War on Terrorism is waged by the brave men and women of our armed forces, and we must provide them the training, equipment, resources, and support they need to complete their mission," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala).  "This measure is vital to meeting the needs of our troops in the field."

The House today approved the House and Senate agreement on H.R. 5631, the Defense Appropriations Act.  Explained Stearns, "This measure provides $377.6 billion in defense spending, plus $70 billion in emergency funding for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.  In addition, it fully funds the 2.2-percent military pay raise, and includes $1.09 billion to counter Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), a major threat to our troops in serving in Iraq and Afghanistan."

Added Stearns, "I am pleased that the House also approved the funding I sought for two local defense projects.  My requests went through the complete authorization and oversight process, and will help protect our military personnel and enhance homeland security.  Brain injury is the second largest cause of death for our troops on the battlefield, and I am proud to have secured $1 million for ongoing research in developing a non-invasive blood test that rapidly diagnoses the severity of traumatic brain injury.  This research is conducted by Banyan Biomarkers of   Gainesville in cooperation with the University of Florida.  H.R. 5631 also includes $1 million for ballistic missile defense research conducted by Vicus Technologies of Ocala.  Vicus is developing thermal protection materials capable of withstanding the severe heating during the flight of the missile defense vehicle."