Vice Chiefs Testify on Joint Force Readiness, Improvements

The vice chiefs of staff for the armed services testified yesterday during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing in Washington on the current readiness of the joint force.

Army Gen. Christopher C. LaNeve said his primary focus is on making soldiers "more lethal and ready to fight and win," which, in addition to acquisition reform, includes infrastructure initiatives and better nutrition and fitness programs for troops.  

Navy Adm. James W. Kilby affirmed the Navy's readiness, which was tested through a variety of global operations over the past year, and its focus on improving sailor quality of life.

Marine Corps Gen. Bradford J. Gering told the committee that the Corps is addressing amphibious ship availability challenges in partnership with the Navy, as well as taking concrete steps to improve recruiting, retention and fiscal accountability.  

Air Force Gen. John D. Lamontagne said the service is investing in airmen, its "most precious resource," and quality of life, as well as focusing on its primary mission to "fix and fly aircraft."

Space Force Gen. Shawn N. Bratton noted that guardians are deployed globally, in harm's way, delivering "unmatched combat capability from space" in support of combatant commanders.