Benton Times

Congressman Steve Womack from Arkansas and Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger from Maryland have been honored with the Association of the U.S. Army's (AUSA) 2024 Legislator of the Year award. Both representatives are members of the House Appropriations Committee’s defense subcommittee, recognized for their support of the Army, soldiers, veterans, and their families.

The awards were presented on Capitol Hill by AUSA President and CEO retired Gen. Bob Brown and retired Lt. Gen. Leslie Smith, AUSA’s vice president for Leadership and Education. Brown praised both congressmen for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to improving the lives of military personnel and their families.

Ruppersberger is retiring after his current term in Congress. He has been a supporter of the Army Research Laboratory and Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, co-chairing the House Army Caucus during his tenure. In 2003, he initiated Operation Hero Miles to assist deployed troops with travel expenses by allowing Americans to donate frequent flyer miles. This program is now managed by Fisher House.

Ruppersberger expressed pride in receiving this recognition as he approaches retirement: “I could not be prouder to receive this recognition from the Association of the U.S. Army as I approach my retirement from public service."

Womack, a retired Army National Guard colonel first elected to Congress in 2010, has served over 30 years in military service including deployment to Sinai Peninsula in 2002. He currently chairs the West Point Board of Visitors.

Womack stated: “Our nation’s service members, veterans and military families consistently put the nation above self... I’m humbled to receive the Legislator of the Year Award for my work to deliver for those who’ve worn America’s uniform.”

The AUSA Legislator of the Year award recognizes congressional leaders who have significantly contributed to supporting all branches within the Total Army framework—Regular Army, National Guard, Reserve—as well as civilians associated with these groups.

This marks only the third presentation since its inception in 2013; however, AUSA has acknowledged congressional leaders' efforts for over two decades.