Hoyer Applauds Investments Benefitting Fifth District Military Facilities, Veterans

Press Release

Appropriations Bill Includes National Security and Quality of Life Investments

Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) announced that the Fiscal Year 2012 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act approved today by the House contains significant investments that will ensure our veterans have access to the resources they need and that our national security and quality of life of those serving in our armed forces remain a top priority.

"I am pleased that the House passed this bill today, which makes important investments to ensure that we can meet the needs of our veteran population, who have sacrificed so much on behalf of our country," stated Congressman Hoyer. "This bill also makes significant investments in our national security, and continues investments in our Fifth District military facilities. The work done at local military facilities is highly valued by the military, and continued investments in these facilities reflect that. These facilities are contributing in significant ways to strengthening the local economy, bolstering our armed forces, and maintaining our nation's status as the premier military innovator in the world."

At Congressman Hoyer's urging, President Obama's Fiscal Year 2012 budget will enable the VA to expand the Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) at Charlotte Hall and establish another in the vicinity of Pax River. The bill passed by the House today would enable these projects to move forward.

The following military construction projects were also included in the President's Budget and passed by the House, and each was strongly supported by Congressman Hoyer for their benefits to the Fifth District:

Aircraft Prototype Facility Phase 2, Naval Air Station, Patuxent River -- $45.8 million

Funding will be used to construct the second phase of this important project for Pax River Naval Air Station. APF represents the future for Pax River and will transform the time it takes to field systems from years down to months and even weeks. This secure capability opens many new opportunities for Pax River to support programs directly involved in fighting terrorism around the world and solving immediate challenges for our warfighters.

Decentralized Steam System, Naval Surface Warfare Center at Indian Head -- $67.8 million

Funding will be used to replace the existing Goddard Power Plant at Indian Head with a Decentralized Steam System which will provide Indian Head with a secure, reliable, and cost-effective energy source.

Army National Guard Readiness Center, La Plata -- $9 million

Funding will be used to construct a 28,630 square foot readiness center to house all elements of the Maryland Army National Guard's 253rd Engineer Company, providing this Guard unit with a modern facility in support of their critical mission. The Maryland National Guard has played a crucial role in support of our nation's efforts in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

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