Service Members and Defense
One of my highest honors in Congress is representing our service members and veterans in Central and Northwestern Illinois. From the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria to the Rock Island Arsenal, our members of the armed forces have always played a key role in strengthening national defense and uplifting our communities.
That’s why I’m committed in Congress to making sure those serving are taken care of and receive the pay and benefits they’ve rightfully earned.
It’s also important to me that our region continues to lead in developing military technologies and supporting readiness, which is why I work to be an advocate for the military operations across the 17th District.
More on Service Members and Defense
MOLINE, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) will host a Service Academy Night on September 8, 2026, to help students and their families learn more about opportunities at the nation’s service academies and the congressional nomination process. The event will be held from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Moline Public Library, 3210 41st St, Moline, IL 61265.
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced that applications for U.S. Service Academy nominations are now open for students interested in attending one of the nation’s prestigious military service academies. Students seeking a congressional nomination from Congressman Sorensen must submit their application through the online portal by Saturday, November 1, 2026.
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, spoke on the House floor in opposition to Amendment #316 to the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), warning that it could lead to the loss of 200,000 Department of Defense civilian jobs, including at places like the Rock Island Arsenal.
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) today released a video message commemorating America's 250th anniversary and celebrating the people and communities that continue to shape our nation's future.
“America's story has always been written by hardworking people, strong communities, and neighbors looking out for one another,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “As we celebrate this historic milestone, we also recognize the responsibility we share to keep building a stronger future for the next generation."
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), member of the House Armed Services Committee, voted to pass the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) out of committee. These bill supports national security, manufacturing, innovation, and good-paying jobs in Peoria and the Quad Cities. Additionally, Sorensen helped to increase pay for servicemembers, expand access to childcare for military families, invest in technology to improve weather forecasting. Next, the full House of Representatives will have to vote on the NDAA.
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), member of the House Armed Services Committee, secured several provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to invest in Rock Island Arsenal and fought to protect jobs and collective bargaining rights for civilian employees. Next, the full House of Representatives will have to vote on the NDAA.
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), member of the House Armed Services Committee, fought for and secured several provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to invest in the Peoria Air National Guard and ensure that Illinois Guard members and their families have the resources they need to continue serving. Next, the full House of Representatives will have to vote on the NDAA.
Watch the Congressman’s Questioning HERE
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen, member of the House Armed Services Committee and meteorologist, pressed U.S. Navy leadership about the importance of weather forecasting and dangers of staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to our national security.
Watch here
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, pressed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on his decision to move jobs away from Rock Island Arsenal while the United States depletes its munitions supply because of Trump’s war in Iran.