Brooks Announces New Army Aviation Caucus

Press Release

Today Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL) announced the creation of the Congressional Army Aviation Caucus (AAC). Congressman Brooks is the founder of the Caucus and co-chair with Congressman Mark Critz (D-PA). The Army Aviation Caucus provides a forum among members of Congress, staff, and the Army to improve communication and support for Army Aviation.

Rep. Brooks, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee and is a member of the Strategic Forces and Oversight and Investigations Subcommittees, said, "The Army Aviation Caucus is an opportunity for representatives from all the communities involved with Army Aviation to work toward common goals. From Members of Congress and staff to the Army, our efforts will help meet the needs of the Army Aviation community."

Rep. Howard P. "Buck" McKeon, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said, "The war in Afghanistan has demonstrated just how critical Army Aviation is to our warfighters. I applaud Congressmen Brooks and Critz for taking the initiative to educate the American people and our fellow members of Congress on this indispensable capability."

Major General Anthony G. Crutchfield, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker, Ala.,said, "We appreciate the concerns shown by the bi-partisan leaders about Army Aviation, which remains one of the most requested enablers on the battlefield. The last decade of war has shown the critical need for Army Aviation assets and there is every indication the need will continue in future conflicts. Our ground commanders depend on us each and every day to ensure the Soldiers on the ground have the aerial lift, attack, and reconnaissance support they need to accomplish their mission. Army Aviation's job is to support them, and we appreciate Congress's interest in our very important mission."

Brooks stated, "Upcoming work for the Army Aviation Caucus includes Member and staff briefings with key Army Aviation offices to learn about their capabilities and needs. The central goal of the Caucus is to ensure that Congress stays focused on the tasks at hand regarding military assets, and to make certain that those assets are reset when they return from the field. Additionally, we need to continue funding for the new armed scout helicopter, and carry on funding the modernization of our fleet and the Joint Multi-Role helicopter. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that this special area of our Armed Forces receives the support it needs."

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