[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 12, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3729-S3730]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION BILL

  Mr. McCONNELL. Madam President, on a related matter, history clearly 
shows us that skillful diplomacy, global peace, and a stronger American 
military are in no way opposed to one another--quite the opposite. 
These components of America's strength are complementary.
  As President Reagan explained, ``Peace does not exist of its own 
will. It depends on us, on our courage to build it and guard it and 
pass it on to future generations.'' Yesterday afternoon, the Senate 
took a step toward doing just that by turning to the John S. McCain 
2019 National Defense Authorization Act.
  This legislation builds on the landmark bipartisan budget agreement 
Congress and the President reached earlier this year. That deal 
established the outlines for the largest year-on-year increase in 
funding for American Armed Forces in 15 years. Now this NDAA will 
authorize the use of those resources for the priorities that matter 
most to the men and women who serve our country and to their commanders 
who plan for the future.
  The legislation will equip our All-Volunteer Force to meet a variety 
of challenges abroad, but its impact will also be felt right here at 
home, where servicemembers will receive more top-notch training and 
expanded support services for themselves and for their families.
  The 2019 NDAA includes a pay raise for all Active-Duty personnel--the 
largest such increase in nearly a decade. It directs billions in new 
funding to the construction of new family housing and on-base support 
infrastructure. It expands resources for child and health services as 
well.

[[Page S3730]]

  I know each of my colleagues can testify to the important roles 
military installations play in communities all across our country. My 
fellow Kentuckians and I take great pride in Fort Campbell, Fort Knox, 
and the Blue Grass Army Depot. We are proud that Kentucky is home base 
to many outstanding units, such as the 101st Airborne Division and 
those of Kentucky's Air and Army National Guard units.
  In our State, as in every State, the military's presence anchors 
entire communities and offers a constant reminder of the sacrifices 
that keep us safe. It is our responsibility to support them. I look 
forward to delivering that support when the Senate votes on the NDAA 
later this week.

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