West Virginia National Guard Secures $41 Million in Federal Funding for Military Construction and Defense

The West Virginia National Guard is set to receive a significant boost in funding thanks to the recently approved federal budget. With $34 Million in military construction funding and $7 million in defense funding secured through the appropriations packages passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden, the National Guard is gearing up for some major improvements.

Lt. Colonel Holli Nelson with the West Virginia National Guard expressed excitement about the wide range of projects that will benefit the state. One of the key allocations is $8.3 Million for a combat readiness fitness facility at Camp Dawson in Preston County. This facility will be a crucial asset for training purposes for the many soldiers, airmen, contractors, and others who pass through Camp Dawson annually.

Additionally, the 167th Airlift Wing Headquarters in Martinsburg will receive $13 Million for upgrades to enhance security measures and provide a new indoor firing range for airmen. The 130th Airlift Wing in Charleston will also benefit from $3 Million in funding for renovations to accommodate new aircraft.

Recognizing the need to update aging armories across the state, the budget includes funding for the design of three new armories in Bluefield, Parkersburg, and Charleston. This investment is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity of the West Virginia National Guard.

In addition to military-focused projects, the budget also includes funding for a small business center in Charleston that will support culinary education, workforce development, and entrepreneurial endeavors for West Virginia veterans and individuals facing barriers to employment. This center will work in conjunction with programs like Patriot Gardens, which aims to help veterans transition into careers in the agriculture industry.

Overall, the funding secured by Senators Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito will have a significant impact on the West Virginia National Guard, providing essential resources for training, security, and infrastructure improvements. With these investments, the National Guard is poised to enhance its capabilities and better serve the state and its residents.