Jack Bergman Advances Military Readiness as HASC Chairman

Representative Jack Bergman, Republican from Michigan’s 1st District, is taking significant steps to enhance military readiness as the Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Subcommittee on Readiness. His focus includes addressing critical issues related to military family support, housing, and environmental safety in the defense sector.

Legislative Focus on Family and Environmental Issues

The Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) aims to improve the overall readiness of U.S. forces by tackling long-standing challenges such as affordable military childcare and expanding military housing options. Bergman emphasizes the need for improved accountability in housing programs, particularly those involving private contractors responsible for military housing quality and safety. This legislative agenda aligns with the subcommittee’s mandate to oversee Department of Defense policies regarding family housing, military installations, and real property management.

Among the notable provisions in the defense spending bill is the Toxic Exposure Accountability provision, which addresses the impact of hazardous “forever” chemicals on military bases. Bergman has long advocated for the cleanup of toxic substances at these sites, reflecting his commitment to environmental health within military communities.

“The problem has been studied extensively — it’s time to act. This is about turning analysis into accountability and moving the Pentagon from paperwork to real-world cleanup,” said Bergman regarding the introduction of the Military PFAS Transparency Act.

Committees and Military Background

Bergman leads the HASC Readiness Subcommittee and is also a member of several influential committees, including the House Committee on Armed Services, Seapower and Projection Forces, and the Budget Committee. His extensive military background includes 40 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant General, serving as commander of Marine Forces North and Marine Forces Reserve.

Throughout his military career, Bergman earned more than 15 medals and commendations, including the Distinguished Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. He retired in 2009, bringing a wealth of experience to his current role in Congress, where he has served since 2017.

Bergman’s political career is noteworthy for his status as the highest-ranking combat veteran elected to Congress. He represents a district that spans from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the northern lower Peninsula. His prior experience as a commercial airline pilot and entrepreneur in the medical equipment sector further enriches his diverse professional background.

Education and Personal Life

Bergman holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of West Florida and a business degree from Gustavus Adolphus College. His military education encompasses various prestigious programs, including Naval Aviation Flight Training and the Naval War College.

Born on February 2, 1947, in Shakopee, Minnesota, Bergman has deep roots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, tracing back to the late 1800s when his family worked in the iron ore mines. He resides in Watersmeet, Michigan, with his wife, Cindy, and they have ten grandchildren.

As Chairman of the HASC Subcommittee on Readiness, Jack Bergman remains committed to ensuring that the military is well-equipped and that service members and their families receive the support they need. His legislative efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing both immediate concerns and long-term challenges within the defense community.