Esper thanks defense industrial workforce

By Tony Bertuca / May 6, 2020 at 11:32 AM

Defense Secretary Mark Esper has released a letter praising the work of the defense industrial base in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I have spoken with the president, as well as numerous state and local leaders, and they praise your hard work, sacrifice, and positive mindset," Esper wrote in his May 4 letter. "You are engaged in a critical mission, and thanks to your efforts, we will carry on supporting the warfighter, as well as our allies and partners, in the midst of a global health crisis."

Esper said DOD will continue to do everything it can to support defense contractors, especially in terms of safety and financial assistance.

"We have published guidance addressing reimbursement to contractors for payment to workers due to COVID-19 facility closures or other restrictions, and we have worked to speed up payments to defense contractors, with the expectation that cash will flow to small businesses across the supply chain," he said. "I am proud of our senior leaders' efforts to support the workforce, and while there is more work to be done, we remain resolute."

Earlier this week, Esper said DOD intends to ask Congress for supplemental funding to keep the defense industrial base primed amid ongoing COVID-19 challenges.

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