The first responsibility of any government and a fundamental principle established in the U.S. Constitution is to protect and defend its citizens. For years, the United States has maintained the world’s preeminent fighting force made up of thousands of men and women who volunteer to serve our country in the Armed Forces.

Idaho has been home to Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB) and the Idaho National Guard for over 60 years. During this time, MHAFB has hosted many diverse missions of the Air Force including special and covert operations; combat and reconnaissance operations; fighter operations; electronic combat; and ballistic missile defense. The Idaho National Guard at Gowen Field also traces its roots to World War II. Gowen Field is home to the Idaho Army National Guard and the Idaho Air National Guard as well as reserve units of the Army, Navy and Marines. There is no question that Idaho’s military community plays a critical role in protecting our nation.

As threats to our nation grow ever more complex and unpredictable, the federal government must have the tools in place to identify, track and prevent threats to our homeland. I will work to ensure our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and National Guard soldiers have the tools and resources necessary to secure the homeland and execute their missions successfully.