Washington, Dec 19, 2007 - House Republican Conference Secretary John Carter (TX-31) today issued the following statement after learning that the Army plans to add 3,273 soldiers and Department of the Army Civilians to Fort Hood’s population by bringing an additional air defense artillery brigade headquarters, a sustainment brigade, Patriot and signal battalions and other support units to Fort Hood.

“Fort Hood’s commanders have consistently said that Fort Hood has the capacity to support and train 50 thousand soldiers, and I was pleased to hear that the Army’s leadership has decided to utilize Fort Hood to its full potential.  Now that we know what to expect, Fort Hood and its supporting communities can plan accordingly for the future.  Not only will this benefit Fort Hood, it will have a great economic impact on Killeen, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights and all the surrounding communities.  I will continue to work to ensure Fort Hood remains the great place it has become and receives all the support it needs.”

By 2013, the additional units stationed at Fort Hood will increased the overall troop strength by 3,273, resulting in an overall troop strength of 49,632.  This increase is the result of President Bush’s plan to grow the Army by 74,200 soldiers across all three Army components.