Washington D.C. – House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) made the following statement after the committee unanimously passed the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act by a vote of 60-1:

“As the Armed Services Committee concludes its mark up of the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, I would like to thank Chairman McKeon, the members of the committee, and staff for their hard work and dedication to the well-being of our service men and women.

"This bill provides our military with the resources and equipment necessary to accomplish their missions and safeguard national security, while also ensuring our troops and their families have support at home that reflects their incredible sacrifice for our nation.

"Although we encountered differences during this markup, members were able to resolve disputes in a respectful manner and uphold the bipartisan tradition of this committee. 

“As we move to the floor later this month, I look forward to continuing this conversation with the rest of our colleagues in Congress, while keeping in mind our paramount responsibility to provide resources for our military personnel and their families.”

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