San Antonio Standard

Today, Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) visited Fort Bliss Army Base in El Paso, Texas to meet with the Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer, Brigadier General Susie Kuilan, and U.S. Army personnel. As a 20-year Navy veteran and a strong advocate for veterans and servicemembers in Congress, Gonzales discussed various topics related to military readiness, upcoming base projects, and the state of veterans' affairs in El Paso.

"Our servicemembers and veterans deserve the absolute best quality of life and care, and I am fighting around the clock in Congress to ensure that's the case," said Congressman Tony Gonzales. "Today, I met with the Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer and Brigadier General Susie Kuilan at Fort Bliss. We discussed ways we can work together to strengthen our military readiness, upcoming base projects, and the state of veterans' affairs in El Paso. I look forward to bringing new ideas to the table to ensure Fort Bliss, military installations across South and West Texas, and our troops are well taken care of."

Congressman Gonzales has been actively working to secure funding for important projects at Fort Bliss. He recently led efforts to secure $74 million for the construction of a new rail yard at the base, which will enhance its logistical capabilities. Additionally, Gonzales played a key role in securing $700 million in funding for a new El Paso VA Health Care Center, ensuring that veterans in the area have access to quality healthcare services.

Furthermore, as part of the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Gonzales successfully secured an increase in funding for the Family Separation Allowance (FSA) provided by the Department of Defense (DoD). The FSA is a monthly payment offered to servicemembers who are separated from their families due to military service. With the increased funding, the FSA payment will be raised from $250 to $400 per month. Gonzales is now urging DoD officials to promptly implement this pay increase for eligible servicemembers.

During his visit to Fort Bliss, Congressman Gonzales had the opportunity to interact with Army personnel and gain insights into the needs and concerns of the servicemembers stationed there. By engaging with military officials and listening to the voices of those on the ground, Gonzales aims to effectively represent their interests and ensure that they receive the support they need.

The visit was documented with a series of photos, capturing Congressman Gonzales at Fort Bliss Army Base, as well as his meetings with Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer and Brigadier General Susie Kuilan.

Through his ongoing efforts in Congress and his visit to Fort Bliss, Congressman Tony Gonzales demonstrates his commitment to advocating for the welfare of servicemembers and veterans. By securing funding for important projects, working to increase support for separated servicemembers, and engaging with military officials, Gonzales strives to ensure that the men and women who serve our country receive the care and resources they deserve.