Blog: Working To Support Our Troops

Statement

Dear Friend:

From time to time I reflect upon our constitution and how the Founding Fathers believed the safeguards written into it would protect our rights as Americans. Among others, we are guaranteed the freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and the freedom to bear arms. As your representative in Washington, I take a great deal of pride in protecting your rights and freedoms.

One of the ways I do this is as a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, where I have an opportunity to work every day on behalf of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines and their families who are on the front lines of this fight to protect the rights and freedoms we hold dear. This important committee is responsible for overseeing all of our military policy and spending priorities, including everything from the war in Afghanistan to weapons program funding to training and benefits for our troops. The committee allows me to closely monitor the decision making process on military engagements around the world and policies effecting the safety and well-being of our service members at home and abroad.

I am privileged to sit on two subcommittees, through which I delve more deeply into certain critical issues. The Subcommittee on Strategic Forces oversees nuclear weapons policy, nonproliferation, and missile defense and attempts to ensure they remain both are safe and cost effective. The Subcommittee on Intelligence, Emerging Threats, and Capabilities oversees military intelligence efforts, counter terrorism, Special Forces, cyber security, and the development of new technologies, all of which help to prepare our military for the unique engagements of the future.

Since being named to the committee, my first priority has been bringing our remaining troops home from Afghanistan. This not only means pushing for an end to the war but also ensuring our troops receive the equipment and training they need to stay safe. Within Indiana, I work tirelessly to protect defense infrastructure, promote defense industry jobs, encourage our best and brightest students to pursue military careers, and improve mental health services for Hoosier veterans to ensure they can live a fruitful lives after their service.

Currently, Congress is looking to complete its annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) process, which dictates military policy for the coming year. One of the timeliest issues is how we address sexual assault--a heinous crime that remains far too common. I was proud to support changes like setting minimum sentencing guidelines for those found guilty of sexual assault or related crimes. As Congress attempts to pass complete this bill over the next few weeks, I will continue to push for these long-overdue changes to reach the President's desk.

It is an honor to serve on the House Armed Services Committee. Knowing that my work ensures a better life for our troops abroad and those who are returning home is a great source of pride for me. If you have any questions about my work on this committee or on behalf of our service members and veterans please feel free to reach out to us.

Sincerely,

André

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