PICATINNY, NEW JERSEY – U.S. Representative Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ-11), the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations recently welcomes the Army's top civilian, to Picatinny Arsenal.  He invited Mr. Robert Speer, a 28-year Army veteran, to visit to gain a better understanding of how this vital installation contributes to the strategic readiness of the Army as well as the Navy, Air Force and Marines.

"It's been an eye-opening experience to visit with you and see what you do and what you dedicate to our readiness outlook," Speer told employees after the tour. "Because (readiness) starts with innovation and the drive and people that make our Army great."

Speer, the Acting Secretary of the United States Army, spent his time in two technology forums that showcased the synergy between Picatinny's two main organizations - the Program Executive Office Ammunition and the Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center.

"Picatinny Arsenal is a unique facility with a mission vital to the nation, especially the Army. The workforce here possesses knowledge and expertise that increases the lethality of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines," Speer said.

Speer received presentations on a sampling of technologies, including several lethality efforts that Picatinny develops and manages for the Department of Defense. Some of these programs included work on the Extended Range Cannon Artillery and on a new advanced Abrams tank round.

"The Picatinny team's work expands our technological advantage across the battlefield. Threats to our national security are always there, so the research and development conducted here are vital," said Speer.

Picatinny is designated the Joint Center of Excellence for Guns and Ammunition, providing products and services to all branches of the U.S. military. The Arsenal provides 90 percent of the Army's lethality and also works closely with the navy, Marines, Air Force, our special operations community and the armed forces of partner nations.

The Secretary of the Army has ultimate responsibility for all matters relating to the United States Army and is responsible for recruiting, training, equipping soldiers to provide forces to support of America's national defense strategy.