WILL MAKE PRESENTATION OF FUNDS AT CAMP BLANDING ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2008

Washington, Feb 15, 2008 - "It is an honor to represent Camp Blanding and to work on behalf of the Florida National Guard," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Sixth). "Camp Blanding serves as the premiere training facility for the Florida Guard and provides year-round training for active Army and Reserve units from around the nation. By enhancing the capabilities of Camp Blanding, we are strengthening our military readiness."

Stearns obtained $25,524,000 million for three vital Florida Guard programs:

$15,524,000 for Phase III of the Regional Training Institute - The original facilities date from WW II and were unable to provide the daily needs of the 800 students going through the institute on an average cycle.

$6,000,000 for the Communications Facility of the 125th Fighter Wing (Based at Jacksonville Airport) - The current communications facilities were built in 1968 and are inadequate to meeting the Air Guard's growing homeland security missions.

$4,000,000 for the Weapons Skill Trainer program - The Weapons Skill Trainer provides a highly realistic and efficient system to refine shooting skills in order to meet more stringent mobilization guidelines.

Stearns will make brief remarks and present checks to Major General Doug Burnett, Adjutant General of the Florida Guard. This event will be held at Camp Blanding on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, starting at 10:30 AM. The presentation of the checks will be at 11:00 AM.