"National defense is one of the cardinal duties of a statesman." John Adams, January 1815

From the beginning, the United States military has protected us and defended America's ideals at home and abroad. It's a history and tradition of which we are justifiably proud. Today, now more than ever, a strong national defense is critical to our continued well-being. That means giving the men and women in our armed forces the equipment and training that they need to do their jobs, wherever those jobs may take them.

It also means supporting them once they return home and beyond. When a person puts on the uniform for the United States military, they're making a lifelong commitment. That commitment runs both ways.

I believe that there are few things more important than supporting the troops who are defending our nation today and tomorrow. We have a responsibility to those who came before them just as we'll have a responsibility to those who follow.