Back to Issues List

Strengthening America's Military

As the War on Terrorism continues in Iraq, Afghanistan, and across the globe, Congressman Bill Young has been a staunch supporter of our brave men and women in uniform who are fighting daily in defense of freedom.  He has visited our troops in the Middle East and throughout the world, as well as those stationed closer to home.  As the Ranking Republican on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, which is responsible for funding our national defense, he regularly meets with the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and most often with enlisted soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and Coast Guardsmen to determine funding priorities for the U.S. Armed Forces and improve the quality of life for military families.

Throughout the 37 years Congressman Young has represented Florida's 10^th District he has worked diligently to see that our men and women in uniform are provided with the best equipment available.  Along those lines, Congressman Young has made certain that defense contracts awarded benefit the workers and economy of Pinellas County.  The defense programs Congressman Young has brought to Pinellas County have created thousands of new jobs here, and have helped create a world-class research and technology sector in the Tampa Bay area.

Congressman Young and his wife, Beverly, have long been active in caring for our wounded service personnel.  Several times a week the Young family pays tribute to the sacrifices of our service men and women by visiting the wounded at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC, the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD and our local V.A. hospitals.  Since September 11, 2001 Congressman Young has awarded many Purple Hearts to our heroes returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.  In addition, Congressman Young assists wounded soldiers and their families however possible to show his appreciation for the bravery and sacrifice of those service members.

Congressman Young proudly stands by all of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen and will continue to support them as they protect our liberty by eliminating terrorism and its sponsors worldwide.