Wilson On Introduction of Bill Protecting Parris Island

Washington, D.C. – Representatives Joe Wilson, Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, Nancy Mace of the House Armed Services Committee, Ralph Norman, William Timmons, Jeff Duncan, and Russell Fry introduced the Parris Island Protection Act, which prohibits the use of federal funds to close or plan the closure of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.

"I am grateful to co-lead the reintroduction of this important legislation which ensures that Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island will remain open. Parris Island has cultivated a legacy of excellence and faithful service to the defense of the United States for over a century. South Carolina welcomes almost 20,000 recruits from around the country to train at Parris Island every year, and any proposals to close the facility would not only be detrimental to South Carolina economically, but also to the United States Marine Corps and our military readiness. Keeping Parris Island open is fundamental to our national defense now and in the future," said Congressman Joe Wilson.

"Since opening over a century ago, Parris Island has served a vital role in the defense of America. Over one million brave Marines have trained at the base and served our country in every conflict since World War I," said Congresswoman Mace. "Parris Island is fundamental to our national defense, and it's vital we continue to make Marines there."

I am proud to stand with Congresswoman Mace and Congressmen Wilson, Norman, and Timmons to protect and ensure the continuation and future success of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot on Parris Island. Parris Island has been an essential part of our country's military history in training our heroes for over one hundred years. Some of the best and brightest Marines have been trained at this facility — including my brother — and it is an integral part of our country's defense capabilities. We must protect this military operation in our state," said Congressman Russell Fry.

"Parris Island is a critical asset to both South Carolina and the United States and has forged countless Marines over the past century. Parris Island deserves to be protected for generations to come, and this legislation will ensure they continue to train our nation's Marine Corps and benefit the Palmetto State," said Congressman Jeff Duncan.

"For over a century, brave men and women with spirit and determination have been molded into Marines at Parris Island. With its rich history, this base is of significant importance to South Carolina, our nation, and our military. As long as I serve in Congress, I will fight to preserve Parris Island and make sure it remains the preeminent training facility for the U.S. Marine Corps," said Congressman Ralph Norman.

"South Carolina has long been a training ground for our servicemembers, with generations of Marines preparing for battle at Parris Island. Parris Island is vital not only to our state but to our national defense, and we must do everything we can to ensure its doors remain open. I am proud to join my colleagues to introduce the Parris Island Protection Act to ensure future Marines continue to receive high quality training right here in the Palmetto State," said Congressman William Timmons.

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