WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced the deployment of approximately 1,100 active-duty troops to aid vaccination efforts in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued a statement in support of the move, noting:

“I commend Secretary Austin and the Biden Administration for mobilizing our troops to support vaccination sites.  This should provide a lift in terms of accelerating vaccine distribution to Americans nationwide.

“Effectively combating COVID-19 requires a coordinated, all hands on deck approach.  These teams of military personnel -- including nurses, vaccinators, and clinical staff -- will provide a big boost toward the goal of vaccinating more Americans, saving lives, and keeping our communities safe.

“I am grateful to our servicemen and women for answering the call and I am confident they will help us turn the tide against COVID-19.”