WASHINGTON – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), the first Delaware Senator in more than four decades to serve on the critical Appropriations Committee, secured $36 million in funding for the Delaware Army National Guard Combined Support Maintenance Shop in the annual Military Construction/Veterans Affairs (MILCON/VA) bill.  The bill passed out of the Appropriations Committee and is now ready for debate by the full Senate. 

“I’m thrilled this bill includes funding for critical Delaware priorities,” said Senator Coons. “It will fund the construction of the Delaware National Guard’s new Combined Support Maintenance Shop in New Castle.  The bill will also create a new pilot program to help veterans tackle the consequences of post-traumatic stress.  It will also provide funding for broader National Guard military construction, which supports civilian authorities in Delaware and U.S. national security.” 

Support for Delaware Army Guard Maintenance Shop

Senator Coons secured $36 million for construction of a combined support maintenance shop in New Castle.  This funding will fulfill the Delaware Army Guard’s immediate need to expand and modernize its maintenance capabilities.  The project will construct a 71,998 square foot maintenance shop on federal land, and will provide sufficient space to perform required maintenance operations in support of the training, administrative, and logistical requirements of the Delaware Army National Guard.

Support for Alternative Health Pilot Program    

Senator Coons led the effort to include a provision in the bill that establishes a two-year pilot program under the VA to provide grants to non-profit Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) to create or improve community wellness centers and promote complementary alternative health programs, such as yoga, exercise, and meditation classes.  The amendment would provide funding for repair or renovation of facilities and the offering of complementary yoga, exercise, meditation, and childcare programs for veterans.  Recent research suggests that inclusion and connection with a community are key protective factors against suicide.  Furthermore, exercise, yoga, and meditation are proven successful treatments for anxiety and assisting with post-traumatic stress symptoms.  Senator Coons’ pilot program will provide healthy, alternative outlets for veterans with mental health concerns and those recovering from injury. 

Support for other National Guard Priorities

Senator Coons helped secure $210.65 million for Army National Guard military construction nationwide and $161.49 million for Air National Guard military construction nationwide. This funding will support various missions vital to both Delaware and broader U.S. national security.  It ensures Guardsmen are able to fulfill their dual missions of supporting civilian authorities at home and U.S. military efforts abroad. 

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