A concurrent resolution congratulating the Sailors of the United States Submarine Force upon the completion of 1,000 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) deterrent patrols.

Mr. President, it is with great pleasure that I cosponsor this concurrent resolution with the Senator from Washington to congratulate the sailors of the United States submarine force upon their completion of 1,000 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine deterrent patrols. Ballistic missile submarines serve as our Nation's primary and most secure nuclear deterrent. This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the sailors who provide our security against the rising threats that are permeating the globe. I stand here today to urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this concurrent resolution in honor of all those who made this milestone possible.

The strategic deterrence capability provided by the Ohio class remains as critical to our national security today as it did when we commissioned the first Ohio-class submarine in 1981. As result of the rapid advancements in the information and technology industries, our adversaries across the globe are developing weaponry at a much faster rate than they were two decades ago. Because of this, we must always be prepared for the next generation of threats. No other weapon can provide deterrence against these threats like the ballistic missile submarine. It is imperative that we continue to fund the research and development to maintain this fleet, thereby ensuring the future of ballistic missile submarines in our naval force. I, along with many of my colleagues, am committed to improving and embracing new technologies that will allow us to maintain and operate the finest submarine force in the world.

The successful completion of 1,000 patrols is a testament to the achievements and hard work of the sailors who support and operate this incredible fleet of submarines. At the same time, we realize that this security is not provided without cost and sacrifice. Thousands of submariners in our Navy spend months and possibly years of their lives underneath the sea to ensure our safety and our freedom. Additionally, we must remember the countless hours spent by Connecticut laborers to design and construct the Trident submarines, also made possible by vendor support from all around the country. It is extremely important that we take the time to thank those service members and those American workers for their sacrifice and their service to our great Nation.

Again, my sincerest congratulations go to all the sailors who made the successful completion of 1,000 deterrent patrols possible. I hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting this resolution in their honor.

I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. Con. Res. 10 submitted earlier today.

I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to,

the preamble be agreed to, the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table, with no intervening action or debate, and any statements related to the measure be printed in the Record.