The final version of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes eight proposals brought forth by Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL), a feat he celebrated in a recent statement, saying, "This legislation reflects our unwavering commitment to America's servicemembers and their families."
One provision included among Rep. Buchanan's eight pieces of legislation includes having the Secretary of Defense give a Congressional briefing on the construction of a memorial to the 13 American soldiers who lost their lives in the tragic Afghanistan withdrawal of 2021, which Republicans have considered a black mark on the Biden Administration.
Another proposal is Rep. Buchanan's Honoring Our Heroes with Dignity Act, which would resume the tradition of horse-drawn carriage funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. The practice was halted last year after evidence of mistreatment and neglect of the horses used to pull the carriages, which the Florida Congressman sought answers to in a letter at the end of October.
Two more provisions would have the Secretary of Defense also brief Congress on the adequacy of mental healthcare and services and efforts to combat obesity within the military, the former an effort Buchanan fought for in last year's NDAA with his "Treating Invisible Wounds" Act.
The other four include:
- An amendment expanding the Future Soldier Preparatory Course, which provides academic and fitness coaching to prospective recruits
- A mandate requiring the Secretary of the Navy to give a Congressional briefing on efforts to improve safety and training programs related to operating Assault Amphibious Vehicles and Amphibious Combat Vehicles
- Another amendment urging for the strengthening of alliances within the Indo-Pacific region to protect against China
- A provision requiring a review of the family separation allowance to determine whether it is adequate to meet the needs of military families and to adjust the allowance as appropriate
"These proposals will enhance military readiness, strengthen our alliances, and honor the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. This legislation reflects our unwavering commitment to America's servicemembers and their families. I'm very pleased to see so many of my proposals included in this bill and look forward to them being signed into law," said Buchanan in his press release.
