WASHINGTON—Marine Corps Lieutenant General Brian Beaudreault, Deputy Commandant Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps; Lt. Gen. Michael Dana, Deputy Commandant Installations and Logistics, Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps; and Lt. Gen. Rex C. McMillian, Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, Commander, Marine Forces North, testified before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Marine Corps Readiness during a hearing at the Capitol, March 6.
Beaudreault, throughout his testimony, discussed the overall theme for the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year ’19 of “Modernizing for the Future Force,” while highlighting the three main objectives of modernization, readiness, and manpower.
“Modernization is a vital component of our readiness,” said Beaudreault. “Our modernization programs are designed to achieve overmatch in capabilities against our most technologically advanced competitor, while ensuring a competitive advantage is maintained across the range of military operations.”
Dana, throughout his testimony, discussed the support of the installations and the importance of ground equipment readiness while also highlighting the commandant’s priority of logistical innovation.
“The Marine Corps’ Installation and Logistics team is focused on ensuring the necessary installations, logistics, and ground equipment readiness is available,” said Dana. “It ensures the Marine Corps remains capable of making marines and winning our nation’s battles.”
McMillian, throughout his testimony, highlighted the importance of training, equipment, and most importantly, the health and mental readiness of the total force of the Marine Corps.
“Marine leaders have a moral obligation to ensure the health and wellness of the nation’s Marine Corps reservists, Sailors under our charge, and their families,” said McMillian. “Your continued support of our behavioral health programs is greatly appreciated.”
The Marine leaders wanted to thank the subcommittee for giving them the opportunity to bring the challenges forward.
“On behalf of all of our Marines, Sailors, many deployed and in harm’s way today, and their families and the civilians that support their service,” said Dana. “We thank the Congress and this subcommittee for the opportunity to discuss the key readiness challenges your Marine Corps faces.”