Notes on Military Matters

Southern Border Deployment & National Guard Use:

  • Concerns raised about deploying 10,000 soldiers to the southern border and using 20,000 National Guard members for immigration enforcement.
  • Concerns stem from using soldiers for tasks outside the Department of Defense (DOD) mission.
  • Commitment sought to prevent using the National Guard for core law enforcement functions like arrests and detentions.
  • The Secretary commits to not using the National Guard for any unlawful use. Current plans are believed to be legally compliant.
  • Concern that the term "unlawful" allows the President to potentially act as he wishes, regardless of legality.
  • The President's priorities may involve rounding up a lot of people raising legal questions.
  • Emphasis on the need for the Secretary to commit to not allowing the use of National Guard for law enforcement purposes.

Indo-Pacific AOR & Hawaii Training Areas:

  • The Indo-Pacific Area of Responsibility (AOR) is a focus of national security.
  • Critical negotiations are underway regarding Army training areas in Hawaii, including Pohakaloa (22,000 acres).
  • Leases for these training areas from the state expire in 2029.
  • These lands are crucial for maintaining military readiness in the Indo-Pacific.
  • The lands also hold cultural significance for the native Hawaiian community.
  • The Secretary commits to working closely with state officials, the community, and the Hawaii congressional delegation in good faith on this matter.
  • Soldiers redeploying from the area report positive experiences concerning how well they're treated and cared for.
  • A special person has been appointed to facilitate these negotiations.

Innovative Sustainment Solutions & 3D Printing:

  • The Army's focus on innovative sustainment solutions like 3D printing is applauded for quickly and cost-effectively addressing long lead times for parts and delays in production.
  • Example: A part with a one-year delay and a $$20 cost in the private sector was 3D-printed for 16¢ by the material command.
  • A provision in last year's NDAA directs the establishment of an advanced manufacturing facility in Hawaii to support all the services.
  • Support for advanced manufacturing and 3D printing is emphasized, not just at large production facilities but from top to bottom.
  • Testing of 3D printing occurred at Project Convergence in the Pacific.
  • Importance of "right to repair," often done under battle damage assessment and repair, which was a key part of the army transformation initiative.
  • Prioritization of the ability to implement such capabilities is requested.