Representative Jack Bergman, a Republican from Michigan’s 1st Congressional District, chairs the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Subcommittee on Readiness. His leadership plays a crucial role in addressing key issues affecting military personnel and their families, particularly through the upcoming FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation aims to enhance overall force readiness, focusing on the human aspects of military life.
The NDAA prioritizes several long-standing challenges, including affordable military childcare, increased housing inventories, and accountability measures for private housing contractors. These initiatives are vital for improving the living conditions of service members and their families. The Readiness Subcommittee, under Bergman’s guidance, is tasked with overseeing Department of Defense (DoD) policies related to family housing, construction, military installations, and logistics.
Tackling Toxic Exposure and Accountability
One of the significant provisions in the House defense spending bill is the Toxic Exposure Accountability initiative. This addresses the detrimental effects of hazardous chemicals, particularly those deemed “forever” chemicals, on military bases. Congressman Bergman has long advocated for cleanup efforts at these sites, emphasizing the need for action rather than further study.
In June 2025, he co-introduced the bipartisan Military PFAS Transparency Act, which provides a framework for removing toxic substances from affected military installations. Bergman stated, “The problem has been studied extensively — it’s time to act. This is about turning analysis into accountability and moving the Pentagon from paperwork to real-world cleanup.” This act serves as a precursor to the Toxic Exposure Accountability provision, reflecting Bergman’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of military personnel.
A Veteran Leader with a Diverse Background
Bergman brings extensive experience to his role, having served in the US Marine Corps for 40 years. He flew both rotary and fixed-wing aircraft and rose to the rank of lieutenant general, culminating his career as commander of Marine Forces North and Marine Forces Reserve in New Orleans. Throughout his military service, he received numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Service Medal and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
Elected to Congress in 2017, Bergman has become the highest-ranking combat veteran in the House. His district spans from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to its northern lower Peninsula, reflecting his deep roots in the region, where his family has lived since the late 1800s.
In addition to his military career, Bergman has experience as a commercial airline pilot and as an entrepreneur, having launched two startups in the medical equipment sector. He holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of West Florida and a bachelor’s degree from Gustavus Adolphus College. His military education includes training from the Naval War College and the Marine Corps Command & Staff College.
Bergman, born on February 2, 1947, in Shakopee, Minnesota, resides in Watersmeet, Michigan, with his wife, Cindy. They have been married for nearly three decades and are grandparents to ten grandchildren. His personal and professional experiences uniquely position him to advocate for the well-being of military families and the broader community.
As chairman of the HASC Subcommittee on Readiness, Jack Bergman remains dedicated to tackling the pressing issues facing military personnel, ensuring their readiness and quality of life are prioritized.
