Wittman, Deputy Secretary Danly Visit Yorktown, Newport News
Newport News, VA – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) hosted Deputy Secretary of Energy James Danly in Virginia’s First District for site visits to the Jefferson Lab (JLAB) and Naval Weapons Station Yorktown. The purpose of the visit was to highlight JLAB’s role in advancing U.S. scientific research, cutting-edge technology, and national security, and Naval Weapons Station Yorktown’s energy needs and opportunities to strengthen energy security and grid resilience.
“Virginia’s First District is home to world-class research facilities and critical military installations that play an essential role in our economic and national security,” said Rep. Wittman. “It was a pleasure to welcome Deputy Secretary Danly to the First District to showcase the groundbreaking work being done at Jefferson Lab and discuss the importance of reliable, resilient energy infrastructure at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown. From investing in scientific innovation to modernizing our military installations, we must ensure that our nation has the technology, infrastructure, and resources necessary to remain competitive and maintain a strong national defense.”
Background:
At Jefferson Lab, Congressman Wittman and Deputy Secretary Danly discussed the Department of Energy’s Genesis Mission and investments in scientific research, including accelerator technology, materials science, and innovations with potential applications in energy and national defense. The visit highlighted Jefferson Lab’s contributions to American scientific leadership, STEM workforce development, and the Hampton Roads region's growing research and technology sectors.
At Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, discussions focused on strengthening the installation’s energy security, modernizing critical infrastructure, and improving grid resilience to support military readiness. The visit also provided an opportunity to explore the potential applications of advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), in providing reliable power to critical defense installations and nearby communities.
As vice chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and chairman of the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, Congressman Wittman remains committed to strengthening America's defense capabilities, supporting technological innovation, and ensuring our military installations have the reliable energy infrastructure necessary to carry out their missions.