A Christmas present for the military and veterans 

It looks like the military and veterans did receive a Christmas present from Congress this year. By a strong 77 - 20 vote, Congress passed the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). While it still requires the president’s signature, that will likely have occurred by the time this is published. 

So, what was left under the Christmas tree? 

First, the NDAA provides a 3.8% pay increase for active-duty service members and military retirees.

Second, Maine benefits directly. Bath Iron Works (BIW) receives $450 million to strengthen and modernize its facilities, and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is funded for needed infrastructure upgrades.

Third, University of Maine System research funding is protected, supporting innovation and high-skill jobs across the state. 

Fourth, the bill supports funding for many Maine defense businesses that supply parts for F-15 and F-35 engines, helicopters, submarines, Army vehicles, hypersonics, and missile systems. I bet many people didn’t realize Maine’s defense industry goes far beyond BIW and the shipyard. 

Fifth, an important quality-of-life provision strengthens the military’s transition to civilian life by requiring a “warm hand off.” This includes the Department of Defense sharing service member information with the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, helping ensure veterans connect quickly with benefits and support. 

Sixth, the NDAA repeals the 1991 Authorization for Use of Military Force, an outdated Gulf War authority. This removes a dormant but real legal basis for unilateral military action and limits the Executive Branch’s ability to rely on decades-old authorizations without congressional approval.

Seventh, the bill provides additional support for Ukraine, reinforcing U.S. commitments to them.

Eighth, it restricts the purchase of certain strategic metals from non-allied nations. That matters to Maine, which has deposits of lithium (batteries), cesium (aerospace guidance systems), tantalum and niobium (electronics, aerospace, and medical devices), and beryllium (aerospace, defense systems, and nuclear reactors). 

Ninth, the NDAA establishes an official U.S. Ambassador to the Arctic. The Arctic is increasingly vital to national security due to natural resources, emerging shipping lanes, and defense concerns. Russia already operates the world’s largest icebreaker fleet and maintains military bases there. 

Finally, the bill expands healthcare collaboration between the Department of Defense and the VA, improving access and continuity of care. 

There are still controversial issues in the NDAA—and things it didn’t address—but it’s Christmas, so I’ll focus on the positives. 

On the VA side, funding continues through the continuing resolution process, though specific projects are still working their way through Congress. 

During this holiday season, let’s remember that over 275,000 U.S. service members are deployed across more than 100 countries and regions, many far from their families. As you enjoy your holiday meals and time with loved ones, take a moment to think about those serving our country and the veterans who have helped ensure the freedoms we celebrate. Their dedication makes it possible for all of us to enjoy this season with peace and security. 

Merry Christmas to all!