Jackson Purchase News

RICHMOND, KY – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered a keynote address today at the Blue Grass Army Depot (BGAD) to mark the completion of the safe destruction of the chemical weapon stockpile. McConnell expressed gratitude to the community and highlighted the significance of this achievement.

McConnell began his address by acknowledging the recent violence in Israel carried out by Iran-backed terrorists. He expressed solidarity with Israel and emphasized the importance of supporting the country in its defense against such acts of terrorism.

Turning his attention to the celebration at hand, McConnell emphasized the significance of the United States' commitment to never deploy or produce chemical weapons again. He highlighted the haunting history of chemical weapons on battlefields, from World War I to recent attacks in Syria and Russia's use of nerve agents. McConnell stressed the importance of condemning the use of these weapons and punishing those who deploy them.

The Senator commended the completion of the destruction of the chemical weapons stockpile, stating, "This achievement is as much a global victory as it is a local triumph." McConnell emphasized the personal connection that the people of Kentucky, particularly Madison County, have to this commitment. He highlighted the presence of over 500 tons of chemical weapons in Kentucky since the 1940s and the community's concerns about their disposal.

McConnell shared his own involvement in the process, from introducing a provision to stop new shipments of chemical weapons to forcing the Army to explore alternatives to burning the weapons. He praised the community's engagement and the advocacy of Craig Williams, a local leader who became an expert on the Depot and its operations.

The Senator expressed gratitude to the operators, technicians, construction workers, and Department of Defense personnel who worked tirelessly to support the Depot's mission. He emphasized the critical role the Depot continues to play and pledged to champion its future as the Army invests in its industrial base.

McConnell concluded his address by reflecting on his career and the honor of leading this charge at the federal level. He thanked the community for their trust and celebrated the triumphant close of this chapter in American history.

In his address, McConnell's words highlighted the importance of the United States' commitment to eliminating chemical weapons, the personal connection of the Kentucky community to this commitment, and the resilience and dedication of all those involved in the successful destruction of the chemical weapon stockpile at the Blue Grass Army Depot.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=3D63128F-E51C-4109-9ED2-B5DA4357ABD3