Rep. Cook Issues Statement on Passage of Funding for China Lake Earthquake Recovery

Statement

Today, Rep. Paul Cook (R-Apple Valley) released a statement on the House of Representative's passage of the Defense Appropriations Bill. The bill included essential funding related to earthquake damages at Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake. Approximately $2.3 billion in military construction funds and $627 million in defense appropriations funds will be used to help rebuild critical infrastructure, command facilities, and equipment.

Rep. Cook said, "I'm pleased to see this important bipartisan legislation move forward to the President's desk. China Lake is a key national asset with major laboratories, testing facilities, and more than 4,000 civilian and military employees. This funding will help return the base to fully operational status, ensuring the safety and capabilities of our men and women in uniform as they defend our national security."

A member of the House Natural Resources and Armed Services Committees, Congressman Cook served as an infantry officer and retired after 26 years as a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his time in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.

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