Westmoreland Review

Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) expressed his support following the House's approval of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5009, known as the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025.

Reschenthaler emphasized the importance of providing resources to military personnel, stating, “During this critical time in history, we must ensure our military heroes have the resources necessary to protect and defend our nation." He highlighted that this year's NDAA offers a "historic 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers while also providing better access to housing, medical care, and child care."

Criticizing the current administration, Reschenthaler remarked on past challenges: "The last four years under the Biden-Harris Administration’s incompetence has emboldened our adversaries, enflamed and created conflicts across the globe, and endangered the lives of our servicemembers." As a Navy veteran himself, he asserted his commitment against what he views as detrimental leadership.

He further stated that "the sake of our country’s future success relies on the men and women entrusted with protecting our freedoms," expressing pride in supporting legislation that prioritizes servicemembers and national interests.

The legislation outlines several key measures: a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted members and a 4.5 percent increase for others; $15.6 billion allocated for enhancing U.S. defense in the Indo-Pacific; ensuring Israel's defense capabilities; banning transgender medical treatments for minors within DoD; prohibiting CRT-related activities in military education; and funding National Guard deployment at the southwest border.

Initiatives led by Reschenthaler include restricting DoD funds related to certain organizations like EcoHealth Alliance and mandating zero-emission vehicles for specific travel regulations.