Reschenthaler Leads Congressional Delegation Trip to Naval Station Norfolk
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) led a congressional delegation visit to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base. During the trip, the group of lawmakers toured the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), USS Delaware (SSN-791), and USS McFaul (DDG-74). They also received a briefing from Admiral Christopher W. Grady, Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces, met with command leadership, and engaged with sailors from their home states.
"I was proud to return to Norfolk, Virginia where I was stationed during my time in the Navy," said Congressman Guy Reschenthaler. "As a former Navy JAG, I am deeply committed to supporting our sailors and marines by securing the resources necessary to maintain maritime superiority against our adversaries. This visit reinforced for us the negative impact of continuing resolutions and the Obama Administration's sequestration on our nation's military. As we face growing global challenges from our competitors, we must prevent unstable funding that can cause serious readiness issues in areas such as research and development, ship maintenance, and reaching the congressional mandate of a 355-ship fleet."
Congressman Reschenthaler was joined by:
•Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-1)
•Congressman French Hill (AR-2)
•Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12)
•Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-3)
"Our military is working hard to protect American interests at home and abroad," said Congressman Kevin Hern. "To do so, they need top-of-the-line equipment and second-to-none training. I'm thankful for the opportunity to visit with our military officers in Norfolk, learn about their priorities, and see for myself the technology and equipment they're using to keep our people safe. I'm confident in what I saw this week. The American people are in good hands, but military preparedness cannot sit on the backburner. Supporting our nation's defense in Congress is a daily necessity."
"The United States Fleet Forces provides critical training and assistance to ensure our Navy forces are ready, capable, and supported in combat missions," said Congressman Fred Keller. "I was proud to join my colleagues on this trip to learn more about the operations of USFF and what we can do in Congress to support their mission."
"It was enriching to learn more about our nation's impressive, proud and powerful navy with my colleagues over the weekend," said Congressman Greg Murphy. "Thank you to the sailors and chaplains who assisted us and showed us around Naval Station Norfolk during our stay. I look forward to working with my fellow Members of Congress in the future to ensure that the United States maintains a competitive edge on the seas over our international rivals. My greatest admiration and gratefulness go to those brave men and women who sacrifice so much to keep this nation free."
Congressional delegation members engaging with Rear Admiral James P. Waters III and Captain Brian P. Hogan prior to boarding the USS Delaware (SSN-791). The Virginia-class submarine will be commissioned in 2020.
Congressional delegation members and Commander Rusty J. Williamson, U.S. Navy, aboard the USS McFaul (DDG-74). The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer is named after Chief Petty Officer (SW/SEAL) Donald L. McFaul, who was killed in action in Operation Just Cause.
Congressional delegation members on the flight deck with Captain Kyle P. Higgins, Commander of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was commissioned in the U.S. Navy in 1975 and has served in Operations Desert Storm, Uphold Democracy, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve.
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