Peace Through Strength

Floor Speech

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Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for your combat service and my combat service, but, most importantly, the combat service of those currently on the front line.

As a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a colonel, I respect America's strength and that it starts at home.

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2027 has been delivered in a bipartisan way, and I am proud to share that the NDAA passed yesterday with eight of my amendments, one of the most of any Member of Congress, and in a bipartisan fashion.

They included enhancing our Air National Guard capabilities, countering Chinese aggression, rebuilding our defense arsenal, supporting our servicemembers' health, pay, and support increases for our veterans and our members.

However, I am most proud of my amendment No. 930, which directs the Air Force to identify bases that already have runways and technical expertise to support the next generation of aircraft but currently lack a permanent flying mission.

The 132nd Fighter Wing in Des Moines is a perfect example. The 132nd has a proud history as the premier flying unit in our Nation's history for F-16s, both training and operational.

Together, the F-16 and the 132nd have built a world-class drone, cyber, and intelligence operation mission while still having access to a fully operational runway. This gives the 132nd a rare winning combination of top-tier expertise, a secure facility, and an active runway.

I thank all of my friends at the Iowa Air National Guard.

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