PICATINNY, NEW JERSEY– Today, U.S. Representative Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ-11), the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, welcomed the Secretary of the Army, Mark Esper, to Picatinny Arsenal.  In a letter earlier this year, Rep. Frelinghuysen invited Secretary Esper to visit to gain a better understanding of how this vital installation contributes to the strategic readiness of the Army as well as the Navy, Marines, and our Special Forces.

“I have been privileged to represent the men and women of Picatinny Arsenal – and this great installation itself – for almost 24 years in Congress,” Rep. Frelinghuysen said.  “Every time I pass through the Cannon Gates I learn about another technological marvel the scientists, engineers and technicians here discovered and fielded to our warfighters to ensure we maintain our advantage against our adversaries on the battlefield.  I am pleased Secretary Esper was able to see, firsthand, this tremendous institution and its critically important work.”

During the visit, Secretary Esper was escorted by Rep. Frelinghuysen, Brigadier General Alfred Abramson, Commander Picatinny Arsenal and PEO Ammunition and Mr. John Hedderich, Director US Army Armament Research and Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC).  They received presentations on a sampling of technologies, including several lethality efforts that Picatinny develops and manages for the Department of Defense. The visit was highlighted by Secretary Esper and Rep. Frelinghuysen addressing the entire Picatinny workforce.

Picatinny is designated the Joint Center of Excellence for Guns and Ammunition, providing products and services to all branches of the U.S. military. The Arsenal provides 90 percent of the Army's lethality and also works closely with the Navy, Marines, Air Force, our special operations community and the armed forces of partner nations.

The Secretary of the Army has ultimate responsibility for all matters relating to the United States Army and is responsible for recruiting, training and equipping soldiers to provide forces to support America's national defense strategy.

Pictured: Brigadier General Alfred Abramson, Representative Rodney Frelinghuysen, Secretary of the Army Mark Esper

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