[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18136]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



             DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2000

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                     HON. GEORGE R. NETHERCUTT, JR.

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 1999

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2561) making 
     appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal 
     year ending September 30, 2000, and for other purposes:

  Mr. NETHERCUTT. Mr. Chairman, in my previous statement in support of 
H.R. 2561, I addressed the much needed funds for KC-135 tanker aircraft 
that this bill provides. It is my hope that the Air Force will look at 
locating these reengined National Guard aircraft consistent with 
ongoing total force initiatives to maximize Guard and Active 
efficiencies through enhanced integration and commonality of equipment.
  I am also supportive of the quality of life initiatives contained in 
this legislation. We have provided for significant increases in spare 
parts, $453 million over the request, equipment repair, $279 million 
over the request, and real property maintenance, $854 million over the 
request. We also provide an additional $88 million for soldier support 
equipment, such as cold weather clothing and initial issue equipment. 
Spare parts, well-maintained facilities and quality equipment is as 
important to a soldier's morale as a pay raise, and this bill meets 
both requirements.
  As Chairman of the Diabetes Caucus, I am pleased that the bill also 
supports a continuing project with the Joslin Diabetes Center, which 
serves to enhance the lives of military personnel and their dependents. 
The partnership with Joslin will reduce human suffering and health care 
costs associated with diabetes for DOD personnel and VA beneficiaries, 
using strengths in the areas of research, detection, prevention and 
managed care protocols.
  This legislation will meet critical modernization and quality of life 
needs and deserves the support of all members.

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