LA VERGNE, TN – After a week touring military installations across Tennessee and Alabama, Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D., visited Feed the Children’s distribution center in La Vergne today. The international charity packs and ships food to needy families nationwide, as well as school supplies to teachers nearby.

    Rep. DesJarlais discussed Hurricane Harvey relief with volunteers, later visiting high-tech employer HYLA Mobile in La Vergne and Tennessee Oncology in Murfreesboro. The doctor, a former cancer patient himself, now fully recovered, praised the oncology center’s “Sit in My Chair” initiative, providing lawmakers a better understanding of the treatment process.  

    “As a survivor, I know the pain and uncertainty of cancer treatment, but the professionals at Oncology Center are making it easier for Tennesseans,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “In Congress, I’m working to reduce paperwork, so doctors can focus on their patients, and to eliminate other hurdles to innovation, while making sure treatments are safe and effective.”

    At HYLA, he cut the ribbon on a new facility for the Texas-based company that recycles and resells mobile devices, over 43 million to date, saving customers money, as well as other costs to the environment. The La Vergne location, applying state-of-the-art software to monitor inventory, analyze global markets and assist customers, will ultimately generate 225 jobs, the company projects.

La Vergne Alderman Jason Cole, Rep. DesJarlais and CEO Biju Nair celebrate HYLA opening

    “Because of our state’s business-friendly environment, especially hardworking Tennesseans, Rutherford County is growing. We’re proud to have this latest addition to our community, and welcome HYLA’s long-term investment in our future,” said Rep. DesJarlais, who said he would like to see Washington adopt Tennessee’s low-tax, low-regulation policies, driving economic progress.  

    The Aerospace and Defense Technology Corridor spanning Middle Tennessee from Kentucky to Alabama is home to advanced weapons testing and deployment facilities, in addition to high-tech employers like HYLA and automotive manufacturers. Rep. DesJarlais, a House Armed Services Committee member, recently met members of the 118th Wing of the Air National Guard in Nashville and traveled to Redstone Arsenal in Alabama to discuss missile defense.

    The 118th Air Wing provides air support for military operations abroad and emergencies, such as natural disasters, in the United States. Redstone, the source of nearly 65,000 jobs in the Tennessee Valley, has served as the center of the U.S. Army’s missile and rocket programs for over 50 years.“Tennessee has a proud military history. Many people might not know our state is also a major research and development hub,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “My meetings with commanders and troops have been extremely informative, and I’m glad I can help.”

    Last month, he voted to improve troops’ training, equipment, pay and benefits, as well as force projection to deter international threats. A series of Navy accidents has demonstrated the need for quick Senate approval of the latest defense appropriations bill, he said. On Friday, he is scheduled to appear at the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration in Shelbyville, where Rep. DesJarlais is expected to receive an award for his work supporting the local industry.