[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 95 (Friday, June 8, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E804]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE Y-12 NATIONAL SECURITY COMPLEX

                                 ______
                                 

                 HON. CHARLES J. ``CHUCK'' FLEISCHMANN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 8, 2018

  Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th 
anniversary of the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, 
Tennessee. Construction of the Y-12 plant in 1943 was a vital step in 
winning World War II, and 75 years later, Y-12 and the NNSA still play 
an essential role in protecting our nation. Today, Y-12 not only helps 
to maintain the nation's nuclear deterrent, but provides fuel stock for 
the United States nuclear navy, retrieves and stores vulnerable nuclear 
material from around the world, and supports other essential government 
missions.
   The Y-12 National Security Complex is an integral part of the fabric 
of its community and of the greater East Tennessee region. It is a 
powerful economic driver, with more than 6,000 full-time contractors, 
subcontractors, and federal employees working at the site. In addition 
to being a key component of the region's economy, Y-12 gives back to 
the Oak Ridge community, providing more than $400,000 annually to area 
nonprofits and educational institutions.
   On Y-12's 75th anniversary, we reflect not only on its great 
history, but look to its bright future. The Uranium Processing 
Facility, a $6.5 billion dollar project, will transform the site by 
replacing outdated, legacy facilities, and during construction, create 
thousands of jobs and have a positive economic impact on the region. 
Through collaborations with labor organizations, colleges, 
universities, and schools, the Y-12's lead contractor, Consolidated 
Nuclear Security, encourages students to consider careers in trades and 
crafts, as well as engineering and other technical fields.
   Seventy five years ago, the men and women of the Y-12 plant worked 
tirelessly to protect our national interests and help us win World War 
II, and generations on they continue to serve their nation and their 
community. The 75th anniversary of the Y-12 National Security Complex 
is an occasion to reflect on this proud history and celebrate the 
people of the complex for their contributions.

                          ____________________