Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Statements on New Armored Brigade Combat Team at Fort Bliss

HOUSTON, Texas – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today released the following statements after Secretary of the Army Mark Esper announced that the Army’s 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division would be converted from a Stryker Brigade Combat Team to an Armored Brigade Combat Team stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas.

“I am pleased that the Army chose Fort Bliss as the home for the new Armored Brigade Combat Team, which Sen. Cornyn and I have advocated for,” Sen. Cruz said. “The Army’s continued expansion in Texas reinforces the state’s position as a pillar in America’s national security and defense, while creating new opportunities in our state. I look forward to working with the Army to ensure this new Armored Brigade and the entire 1st Armored Division are ready to deter adversaries, promote peace, and project American strength.”

“This conversion makes Texas the world leader for armored units,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Fort Bliss and Fort Hood are our nation’s only Mobilization Force Generating Installations, and so Fort Bliss is well-equipped for the rapid deployment and redeployment of our Armed Forces. El Paso will serve as a capable host to this new unit, and I welcome this influx of resources for our soldiers at Fort Bliss.”

In April, Sens. Cornyn and Cruz sent a letter to the Sec. Esper requesting the conversion and that it be located in Texas.