National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019

Floor Speech

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Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of amendment No. 73, requiring a report to relevant committees on the missions, operations, and activities of the Department of Defense in Niger and the broader region.

I believe that key components of the amendment are necessary to obtain critical, tactical, operational, and strategic improvements in U.S. Africa Command's efforts to achieve stability and security in the region, and most importantly, keep our troops safer.

As evidenced by the tragic deaths of the four soldiers who were ambushed by ISIS near Tongo Tongo, Niger, last October, improvements throughout the chain of command and military services are necessary, and DOD must provide greater transparency and communication with Congress regarding legal, operational, and funding authorities for military operations in Africa.

The amendment requires DOD to specify its objectives in Niger and justify their relevance to U.S. national security. For the safety of our troops, the amendment also requires DOD to identify measures to mitigate operational risk and increase the preparedness of members of the Armed Forces in Niger and the broader region.

It will also mandate that DOD assess the command and support relationships of U.S. Africa Command with subordinate commands like Special Operations Command. This will help to ensure improved command and control throughout the chain of command, that the commander's intent is clear, and that operational guidance is consistent and concise.

Indeed, the tragic deaths of the four soldiers killed in action affected me personally in an overwhelming way. One of the four soldiers killed was a dear constituent of mine, Sergeant La David Johnson of Miami Gardens.

Sergeant Johnson, who was killed while bravely defending our country, was 25 years of age. He left behind a lovely extended family, a beautiful wife, and three young children. He was a member of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence, and 50 members are visiting us here today.

Mr. Chair, I am hopeful that with actions currently being taken by the DOD, along with the prescriptive elements of this amendment, our Nation will not have to suffer another tragic loss like we did last October.

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