The primary role of the United States government is providing for our national defense. September 11, 2001, reminded us that our military must have the resources it needs to defend our nation’s interests abroad and protect us from those who would attack us at home. Even in these times of fiscal austerity, we must ensure our men and women in uniform receive the training and equipment they need to defend the freedoms we as Americans enjoy every day.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore currently hosts more than 40 aviation tenants, including the Strike Fighter Wing Pacific and the Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific. I have been working with the Navy to ensure that NAS Lemoore continues to play a significant role in our national defense by supporting the Navy’s decision to homebase the Pacific Fleet’s F-35C Joint Strike Fighters at NAS Lemoore. In addition to strengthening our national defense, NAS Lemoore plays a critical role in the economy of the Central Valley. The arrival of the new F-35C aircraft at NAS Lemoore, while continuing to support the existing fleet of F/A-18 Hornets and Super Hornets, will inject much needed economic stimulus into a suffering region. I look forward to working with the U.S. Navy as they continue to update their NAS Lemoore based aircraft.

America owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and to those veterans who served before them. America’s veterans have made immeasurable sacrifices in defense of our liberty. We have a responsibility to honor their sacrifices by providing the highest level of care possible for our veterans and military retirees. As Congress works to get our nation’s fiscal house in order, we must ensure we minimize the impacts of our fiscal realities on those who have worn, and continue to wear, the uniform of the United States of America.