Graves Supports Pay Raise For Troops

Press Release

Graves Supports Pay Raise For Troops

U.S. Congressman Sam Graves today helped pass legislation that includes a pay raise for troops and money for National Guard units to replenish their equipment. The National Defense Authorization Act, H.R. 1585, provided a 3.5% pay increase for all members of the Armed Forces. Basic pay has risen by 41% over the last eight years.

"There is no doubt that our fighting men and women deserve a raise," said Graves. "I am committed to making sure that we take care of our troops."

The bill authorizes $4.1 billion for state of the art Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, $2.5 billion for up-armored Humvees, $1.2 billion for personal body armor, and $4.5 billion for improvised explosive device jammers. It also promotes the Chief of the National Guard to a four-star general with a seat on the Joint Chiefs of Staff- giving the Guard a greater voice in military decision making. Graves was a vocal proponent of the change. In addition, the bill provides a billion dollars for National Guard units to replenish equipment that has been damaged or lost.

"I want to make sure that our National Guard has all the tools they need to carry out their missions," said Graves. "Today, the House set politics aside and did the right thing."

Another provision in the bill authorizes an increase in the active duty Armed Forces. The Army will grow by 36,000 personnel and there will be 9,000 more Marines.

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