U.S. Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08) joined his colleagues Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) and Congressman Ron Barber (D-AZ) on the House Armed Services Committee to offer an amendment to keep the A-10s in the Fiscal Year 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The amendment, which passed with a vote of 41-20, preserves the A-10 fleet and requires a study to ensure that troops have adequate close air support.  Moody Air Force Base has two squadrons of the A-10 Warthogs. 

“Today, the House Armed Services Committee sent a strong signal that they understand the importance of the A-10 Warthog and the close air capability it provides is essential to our nation’s defense,” said Congressman Scott. “As long as we have military personnel in harm’s way, we need to have the very best close air support aircraft and pilots in place. I will continue to fight to preserve the A-10, and I am proud to serve as the voice for Moody Air Force Base on the Committee. I urge the Senate Armed Services Committee to support the A-10’s as they review their defense budget proposal.”

Rep. Scott, who serves on the Readiness, Military Personnel, and Oversight Subcommittees, represents Robins and Moody Air Force Bases.

The NDAA rejects President Obama’s request for Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) and his proposed cuts to military benefits including TRICARE, Housing Allowances, and Commissary benefits.

The NDAA is expected to be considered by the full House in two weeks.