National defense requires seriousness. Andy Barr has demonstrated that seriousness through action, not rhetoric.
Donald Storm, Edward Tonini, Stephen Hogan Opinion contributors
We have each had the privilege of serving as adjutant general of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. In that role, we were responsible for the readiness, modernization and welfare of the patriotic men and women of the Kentucky National Guard.
Across our decades of combined service — in combat zones overseas, during natural disasters at home and in times of national emergency — one truth remained constant: readiness is never automatic. It is built through leadership, sustained investment and an unwavering commitment to taking care of those who serve.
It is through that lens that we evaluate leaders in Washington.
In Congress, Andy Barr has proven himself to be a strong and reliable champion for the Kentucky National Guard and our mission.
Supporting guardsmen
One of the most important ways Congress supports readiness is through modernization and equipment. On that front, Congressman Barr played a key role, working alongside Sen. Mitch McConnell, Sen. Rand Paul, Rep. Hal Rogers, former Rep. John Yarmuth, Rep. Brett Guthrie, Rep. Thomas Massie, Rep. James Comer and Gov. Andy Beshear, in delivering multiple C-130J aircraft to the Kentucky Air National Guard, significantly strengthening our airlift capabilities for both federal operations and domestic response. The Kentucky Guard serves a critical role not only in supporting missions abroad, but also in responding to floods, tornadoes and other emergencies here at home. Because of these investments, Kentuckians can continue to rely on their guard when it matters most.
But readiness is not just about equipment — it is also about people.
Recognizing that, Congressman Barr has supported recruitment and retention by backing meaningful increases in servicemember pay. In 2024, he supported the largest pay raise for junior enlisted troops in over 25 years — a 14.5% increase. At a time when all branches are facing recruitment challenges, competitive pay is not simply a benefit; it is essential to maintaining a ready and capable force.
Building on that commitment to those who serve, Congressman Barr has also focused on policies that directly impact guardsmen in their day-to-day lives.
Most recently, he introduced legislation to eliminate federal income taxes on Inactive Duty Training (IDT) pay — the compensation National Guard members receive for their monthly drill weekends. These weekends are not ceremonial. They are the backbone of readiness. Guardsmen step away from civilian careers, businesses and families to maintain proficiency, meet federal standards and remain prepared to deploy at a moment’s notice.
While taxing that service may be longstanding policy, it is worth asking whether it is the right one. Eliminating federal taxes on drill pay would recognize the unique dual role guardsmen serve as both civilian professionals and military servicemembers. More importantly, it is a practical, targeted reform that would strengthen retention and send a clear message: their service is valued. Congressman Barr’s leadership on this issue reflects a broader commitment to ensuring our guardsmen are supported both in and out of uniform.
That commitment does not end when the uniform comes off.
An enduring mission
Congressman Barr has also worked to expand benefits for veterans, from Vietnam through the Global War on Terrorism. He voted for landmark legislation like the PACT Act and the Blue Water Navy Act, ensuring that veterans suffering from toxic exposure receive long-overdue health care and disability benefits. For far too many veterans, recognition of service-connected illnesses came years — even decades — too late. These actions delivered real care and real relief to those who earned it.
Taken together, these efforts reflect a broader understanding of how policy decisions in Washington impact readiness on the ground.
Throughout our time leading Kentucky’s National Guard, we saw firsthand how federal decisions translate directly to readiness at the unit level. Pay, benefits, equipment and training resources are not abstract budget items — they determine whether units are prepared when the nation calls.
Public service requires seriousness — especially when it comes to national defense and veterans’ care. On these issues, Andy Barr has demonstrated that seriousness through action, not rhetoric.
The mission of the National Guard is enduring. Our commitment to those who serve must be as well.
Retired Major General Donald Storm served in the U.S. Army for over three decades and as adjutant general of Kentucky from 2003-2007.
Retired Major General Ed Tonini served for over four decades in the U.S. Air Force. He was Kentucky’s adjutant general from 2007-2015.
Retired Major General Stephen Hogan served for over 30 years in the U.S. Army. He was Kentucky’s adjutant general from 2015-2019.
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