WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, has secured $5.8 million in the FY 2009 Military Construction-VA Appropriations, HR 6599, to benefit Oklahoma’s military infrastructure at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant. The bill passed the House Friday 409 to 4 and will be taken up by the Senate next.
“McAAP is a proven component of the United States Armed Forces. The mission they perform every day is critical to our national security, especially during a time of military conflicts abroad,” Boren said. “Oklahoma has a strong record of service in the defense of our nation and I’m proud to have provided this funding to expand our state’s military capabilities. This rail facility expansion will insure that McAAP continues to be vital part of the military’s munitions supply.”
The funding will be used to construct 2.5 miles of new railway to connect the 38AT Magazine Group to the Ashland Depot, and will include the necessary drainage, signage, signals, and road crossings. The improvements will improve transport of munitions to the Ashland Depot where they are prepared for outbound shipments.
The rail project funding is one portion of the $35 million secured by Boren earlier this summer in the FY 2009 National Defense Authorization Act. The other projects included in the $35 million authorization are set to be considered in the FY 2009 Defense Appropriations Act later this year.
“This legislation is important not only for Oklahoma’s military installations, but it also makes significant investments in the well-being of our military families and veterans. Coming on the heels of last year’s largest funding increase in the 77-year history of the VA, today’s legislation builds upon that momentum by supporting those who have made every sacrifice for our nation,” Boren said.
The Military Construction-VA Appropriations Act the House approved Friday includes $93.7 billion for all veterans’ programs, which is $6.1 billion, or 7 percent, more than the current level. For veteran’s health programs the bill provides 40.7 billion, a 9 percent increase. It also appropriates $3.2 billion for family and military personnel housing which is 10 percent more than the current level.
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