ROCK ISLAND, Ill.-The Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Ike Skelton, and Illinois Rep. Phil Hare visited Rock Island Arsenal today.
During the visit Chairman Skelton recognized the Arsenal's contributions to military operations past, present, and future.
"For more than 100 years, Rock Island Arsenal has manufactured artillery and equipment necessary to keep our troops safe in combat, and my visit today has confirmed that this facility is undoubtedly a national treasure," said Skelton. "I look forward to working with Congressman Hare to address the challenges facing the Arsenal so that it can continue to play an important role in our military's future."
Skelton went on to say that in the Missouri Fourth Congressional District - whom Skelton has represented since 1977 and is home to Fort Leonard Wood, Whiteman Air Force Base, and the Missouri National Guard Training Center - the Arsenal's impact on military operations is felt there as well.
Congressman Hare shared Skelton's affirmation of the Arsenal's worth.
"I am grateful to Chairman Skelton for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit the Arsenal," said Hare. "I believed it was important for him to see firsthand the crucial role this facility plays in assisting our men and women in uniform. I look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Skelton to keep the Arsenal vibrant and strong."
Hare has represented the 17th Illinois Congressional District since 2006.
The congressmen began their visit, hosted by the Commanding General of the Army Sustainment Command, Maj. Gen. Yves J. Fontaine and Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen D. Blake, with a tour of the Arsenal's manufacturing facility by Col. Craig Cotter, commander of Rock Island Arsenal's Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center. Afterwards, the two were treated to a luncheon with local civic leaders at the Arsenal's historic Quarters One.
They then proceeded to building 350 for an operational briefing from Maj. Gen. Fontaine outlining critical missions and programs carried out by the ASC, including the management of conventional ammunition; the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program (LOGCAP), which provides contractor support in theaters of operation; and the prepositioning of weapons and equipment.
Prior to departing the Quad City area, Rep. Skelton, along with Rep. Hare, held a press conference highlighting his visit to Arsenal Island.
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