[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 59 (Thursday, May 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E885]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  NATIONAL MILITARY MUSEUM FOUNDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 1997

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation to create 
a National Military Museum Foundation to provide much-needed support to 
our Nation's 90 military museums.
  These museums, scattered across 34 States, tell the proud history of 
our armed services. Ever since the Revolution, the Department of War 
and its successor organizations have preserved historic military 
artifacts.
  But today, many of these invaluable collections are in jeopardy. 
Museum facilities are deteriorating and there has been inadequate 
funding to maintain these historic collections.
  A 1994 study by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation found 
that inadequate staffing and funding has been dedicated to these 
national assets.
  The museums in Maryland, including the one at the Patuxent River 
Naval Air Station, need additional financial assistance. I am confident 
that my colleagues will find similar needs in their own States.
  My legislation, introduced in the Senate last week by Senator Paul 
Sarbanes, would allow private sector support to be funneled throughout 
the country. The Foundation would be governed by a nine-member board 
chosen by the Secretary of Defense. In order to get it started, I am 
proposing a one-time $1 million appropriation and shared use of DOD 
personnel and facilities. After that, the Foundation would be self-
sufficient and would actually save the Department money.
  I urge support for establishment of a National Military Museum 
Foundation.

                          ____________________