“This Bill gives our troops the support and resources
they deserve and ensures that we are taking steps to ensure military readiness
in the face of increased threats.” assures Congressman Paul Cook
President Signed Into Authorization
Washington D.C.__ August
2018__ U.S. Representative
Paul Cook (R-Apple Valley) voted for HR 5515,
the annual National Security Authorization Bill. HR 5515 Bill passed the House overwhelmingly with bipartisan
support.
The final Bill, which was negotiated through both the
House and the Senate, has several provisions which restore military readiness,
provide for our troops, and protect our national security against threats both
at home and abroad.
HR 5515 Bill increases the size of the military, fully funds a 2.6% pay raise for our
troops, and extends bonuses for service members in high-demand fields. In
addition, the Bill provides increased training for our troops, rebuilds
critical infrastructure, and makes important bureaucratic reforms to ensure
that our military is efficient. It also strengthens cyber defense and
prioritizes the readiness of US Cyber Command.
HR 5515 also includes language Rep. Cook specifically proposed including a
prohibition on the acquisition of sensitive materials from China, Russia, Iran
and North Korea. He also successfully pushed for language that highlights the
Army’s need to build a large urban training center for large scale exercises
that prepare our soldiers to fight in tomorrow’s dense urban environments.
Rep. Cook said, “I’m proud to have
been an integral part of drafting this year’s National Security Bill. I thank
House Armed Services Chairman Thornberry for appointing me to this year’s
conference committee.
This Bill gives our troops the
support and resources they deserve and ensures that we are taking steps to
ensure military readiness in the face of increased threats. This year’s National
Security Bill also includes language I drafted to advance important projects in
my District. I look forward to seeing the President sign it into law.”
A member of the House Armed Services,
Natural Resources, and Foreign Affairs Committees, 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.