The U.S. House of Representatives approved an amendment last week in the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act from U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) to protect funding for Combat Readiness Training Centers (CRTC), including one in Savannah, Georgia.
“It is critical that the United States continue to invest in world-class CRTCs so that our troops have the resources and trainings necessary to provide for our nation’s defense,” Rep. Carter said.
The U.S. Air National Guard operates four CRTCs that provide pilot training, regional training conferences, classified engagements, and regional operations support. In addition to the CRTC in Savannah, there are centers located in Gulfport, Mississippi; Alpena, Michigan; and Volk Field, Wisconsin.
The House on Friday approved its version of the annual defense bill, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2025, H.R. 8070. It next must be approved by the U.S. Senate.
Rep. Carter said that the Biden administration has repeatedly attempted to cut funding for CRTCs “despite our Air Force being the oldest, smallest, and least combat-ready in history.”
“By including my amendment protecting funding for all four CRTCs through FY 2025, we are equipping our brave service members with the necessary tools to protect our freedoms and guard against international threats to democracy,” the congressman added.