September 21, 2007 — Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) last night was presented with the 2007 “Friend of the George C. Marshall Institute” award at an annual celebration and banquet honoring contributions to science, public polity, and public service.  Congressman Franks was the only Member of the House to receive the award, specifically for his contributions to space defense.

“In the 21st century, space must be a critical defense priority for America.” Franks said.  “Receiving this award is truly an honor, but it is the defense community and their relentless pursuit of space technology innovation to further the cause of America's national security and human freedom who truly deserve to be honored.

“Congress and the Department of Defense must both understand the rapidly evolving world of defense technology and renew their collective dedication to staying ahead of every threat.  On the Armed Services Committee this year, I have continually sought to bring the debate over space defense to the forefront of our consideration for funding priorities, and I will continue advocating the importance of space defense for this and future generations.
 
“The George Marshall Institute and others like it are making critical contributions every day to the front line of freedom as they help orient and educate policy makers; and they will continue to have my deepest gratitude for their efforts.”

Congressman Franks successfully led the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) to have an open debate on the need to defend our space assets, especially in light of the recent Chinese ASAT test.  He later prompted strong debate regarding the use of space for gaining and maintaining a strategic military advantage for the United States and other free nations.

Congressman Franks also offered an amendment in the HASC mark-up to restore the $10 million cut in the President’s Budget request for developing conceptual studies for a space test bed, and later offered an amendment to fully restore the missile defense funding which had been cut from the National Defense Authorization Act, which would have also restored the $10 million for the space test bed.
 
The George Marshall Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging the use and influence of science in public policy, through published reports, roundtables, workshops, and collaboration with other institutions.  It provides information and perspective on the technical factors bearing on national security, the environment, and related public policy issues to the public, press, and government officials.