WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, has secured $2,705,000 in the FY08 Omnibus Appropriations Act to benefit military construction at Camp Gruber near Braggs, Oklahoma. The bill passed the House of Representatives this week and is expected to be signed into law by the President.
“Camp Gruber is a critical component of the Oklahoma National Guard’s training and readiness capabilities, and the role it plays is especially important in this time of war,” Boren said. “I’m pleased to provide these vital resources to expand its facilities and to invest in the future of the Oklahoma National Guard.”
Maj. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III, the adjutant general of Oklahoma, expressed his appreciation.
“We are very thankful to Congressman Boren for securing this funding. This will allow Camp Gruber to become a more viable training venue for members of the Oklahoma National Guard, the Department of Defense and state agencies that also utilize Camp Gruber. It will also enhance Camp Gruber as a mobilization platform for our units that are preparing for deployment,” he said.
The funding will be usedfor design and planning for construction at Camp Gruber. The project will help meet training shortfalls the Oklahoma National Guard is facing, especially in classrooms, administration, barracks, and dining facility space.
“I had the honor of visiting Camp Gruber and the 45th Infantry Brigade this fall as they readied for their missions in the Middle East,” Boren said. “I saw firsthand the courage, honor, and diligence they have committed to their training. I know that this funding will give them additional tools they need to continue training at the highest levels possible.”
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