‘The legislation before us sends a clear message to our men and women in uniform. It tells them that we have their backs. After years of uncertain funding and arbitrary spending limits, we have their backs. In the face of diverse and evolving threats, we have their backs. When I vote, I’ll do it to tell the brave Kentuckians serving at home and abroad that we have their backs. I would hope that each of my colleagues does the same. This bill was crafted in a thorough, bipartisan committee process, and was modified to include more than forty amendments. I look forward to concluding our consideration and passing this NDAA soon.’