From the Office of Senator Kerry

Friday, December 10, 2004

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Continuing his long-standing commitment to ensuring American troops have the equipment they need and deserve, Senator John Kerry today sent the following letter to the Pentagon: December 10, 2004

Dear Secretary Rumsfeld:

The recent reports of inadequate armor for U.S. military vehicles in Iraq have been followed by statements from suppliers that they could be doing more to provide armor for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In the last two days, Armor Holdings, Inc. stated it is capable of immediately expanding its production by 22%. ArmorWorks has indicated they are only at 50% of capacity in their manufacturing of armor kits. AM General, the manufacturer of Humvees, also indicated it had excess production capacity.

Yesterday, my staff heard from Protective Armored Systems (PAS) of Massachusetts. PAS manufactures bullet-resistant windows and has previously provided kits for Humvees. Foster-Miller, another Massachusetts company, has already provided add-on armor for Humvees to the Marine Corps. Both firms stand ready to assist your efforts to give America’s soldiers and Marines the best gear and protection available.

I know you agree that no soldier should be put in harm's way without adequate armor. I urge you to investigate immediately why troops are going without the equipment they need when American companies say they can provide it.

We must never spare any expense when it comes to the lives and safety of our troops. I encourage you to reach out to American manufacturers, like those in Massachusetts, who are ready and able to contribute to meeting the immediate needs of our men and women in uniform. If I can be of any assistance in this regard, please let me know.

Sincerely,

John F. Kerry

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