WASHINGTON, DC – Today Chairman-elect Ike Skelton (MO) held a press conference to release the following list of priorities for the House Armed Services Committee in the 110th Congress:

IRAQ – The committee will focus on a wide range of issues involved in Iraq.  Particular focus will be on the missions of U.S. forces and force protection, the training of Iraqi Security Forces, and the current status of reconstruction and rebuilding efforts.

Afghanistan – The committee will examine the NATO led international force, the fight with terrorists along the border, and the problem of increasing drug production.

War on Terrorism – The committee will look at whether terrorism is getting the right priority within the services, how the roles of special operations forces and intelligence have changed, and how DOD teams with other government agencies in the effort.

Fixing U.S. Forces – The committee will ensure that the military gets the people, equipment, and training needed, that units returning from Iraq and the National Guard are fully reset, and that we improve the quality of life for military families.

Nuclear NON-Proliferation – The committee will carry out the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to strengthen counter-proliferation programs, will oversee U.S. efforts to implement international agreements, and will monitor emerging WMD threats from around the globe.

The Future Department of Defense – The committee will ensure that DOD is correctly postured for the security threats of the 21st century, oversee military modernization and transformation, especially shipbuilding, and make sure the acquisition system is getting materials to our troops in a timely and efficient manner.”