Includes $18 Million Request Made By Reps. Carter and Edwards for CH-47 Chinook Hangar

Washington, May 4, 2006 -  U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31), a member of the Appropriations Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, announced today that the Subcommittee has approved $111 million in funding for projects at Fort Hood. The Fiscal Year 2007 Military Quality of Life, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations bill includes funding for the following Department of Defense requests for Fort Hood: $47 million for an additional barracks complex, $28 million for a combined arms training facility, and $18 million for women’s health services.

The bill also includes $18 million for the construction of a CH-47 Chinook Hangar at Fort Hood, which was requested by Congressman Carter and Congressman Chet Edwards.

The new hangar is needed to accommodate the base’s needs. The current hangar was built in the 1950’s, only supports 3 aircraft, and does not meet current requirements to support the maintenance needs of today’s advanced aircraft. More hangar space is a necessity considering that projections estimate that Fort Hood will be supporting up to 24 CH-47s in the future.

“These projects are critical to Fort Hood’s continued vital role in the War on Terrorism,” Congressman Carter said. “I am also pleased to have helped secure funding for a new hangar, as it will provide Fort Hood with adequate facilities to support an additional Combat Aviation Brigade. Without additional facilities, unnecessary hardships would be placed on the unit's ability to maintain, and train their soldiers,”

“I commend Rep. Carter for fighting for this priority project at Fort Hood. It was a privilege for me to support him in that effort,” said Edwards, ranking member of the subcommittee.

The appropriations legislation now awaits action by the full House Committee on Appropriations before being sent to the House Floor for consideration.