Recently, Republican Jerry Karl, who represents the 1st Congressional District, set aside two days to visit Fort Novosail, formerly known as Fort Rucker. This visit focused on understanding the impacts of National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) funding on the facility and discussing its future needs.
All of Alabama's members of Congress voted for the National Defense Authorization Act, except for 2nd Congressional District Congressman Barry Moore, who opposed military funding. The National Defense Authorization Act establishes funding and policy for the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Energy (DOE) security, the Naval Administration, the Department of State, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Defense Nuclear Safety Board, the Naval Petroleum Reserves, and other agencies such as the U.S. Department of Defense. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Located in the Wiregrass region of southeastern Alabama and covering approximately 63,000 acres, Fort Novosail serves as the headquarters and center of excellence for U.S. Army aviation. This institution plays a pivotal role in the local and regional economy. “Alabama has a lot to be proud of, and Fort Novosail ranks high on this list. As the fifth-largest employer in Alabama, and the largest employer south of Montgomery, Fort Novosail is the backbone of the Wiregrass and surrounding communities,” Carl said in a press release. Not only does it employ approximately 15,000 people, but it also provides support for an additional 113,000 veterans.
According to the Institute for Defense Studies, Fort Novosail contributes significantly to the economy of southeast Alabama, generating approximately $1.2 billion annually from government contracts for services, products, equipment and supporting organizations and agencies at the fort.
“I just spent two days with Commander-in-Chief Maj. Gen. Michael Macari and his team so I could learn more about the needs and challenges they face,” Carl said. He praised the efforts of Senator Britt and Chairman Mike Rogers, highlighting the allocation of more than $60 million from the National Defense Authorization Act to Fort Novosail, primarily to improve living conditions in the barracks. “I proudly supported the National Defense Authorization Act and these dollars went to Fort Novosail because this is a huge step forward for our service members,” he added.
Amid the political landscape, Carl finds himself in a race with Moore, who currently represents the 2nd Congressional District. Because of redistricting challenges, Moore chose to run outside his district, setting the stage for a unique election battle in a deeply conservative district.
Concluding his remarks, Carl reaffirmed his commitment to Alabama's military infrastructure. “There is still a lot of work to be done to modernize and grow Fort Novosail, and I will continue to fight for it and for all military installations in Alabama because it is our duty to provide for our service members who have signed up to protect and fight for our nation.”
Alabama, a state with a strong military presence, is home to five different military bases, serving various purposes including training facilities for the US Army and US Coast Guard. Throughout his tenure, Carl has been an outspoken and active supporter of Alabama's military families and organizations, strengthening his commitment to the state's defense sector.
