Congressman leads effort to learn about needs of local businesses

U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, a Concord Republican for the 8th District, spent time in Fayetteville on Tuesday to learn how federal lawmakers can assist a veteran-owned business.

The tour was part of Hudson’s initiative to familiarize himself with businesses in the southern part of North Carolina, including several that surround Fort Bragg. His initiative provides local business owners face time with the congressman, while also affording Hudson the opportunity to learn about needs and concerns of businesses.

Larry Walsh started The Logistics Company in 1997 as he was retiring from 20 years of service in the Army. The business provides logistical training and some operations for military installations in 40 states and Kuwait.

The business is Walsh’s continued effort to serve the military. About 80 percent of his staff is military-connected, he said.

“We can’t serve anymore,” he said. “This is a chance to give back. You can help Army families.”

At The Logistics Company, Walsh said it is critical for federal lawmakers to approve spending for the military so businesses can continue performing work for the Department of Defense.

The company started with one contract worth $237,000 to train logistic soldiers and has ebbed and flowed over time to a peak of $74 million annual revenue in 2010. Revenue took a big hit in 2014 after sequestration, he said.

“What would help is for (Congress) to work on funding for the military,” Walsh said.

Hudson noted the concerns expressed by Walsh and other leaders.

“I appreciate the roles contractors play in supporting our men and women in uniform,” he said. “It gets our warfighters what they need. On another level, it’s jobs here at home.”

Touring the facility has given Hudson ‘real-world experience’ that he said he will keep in mind as he votes on federal legislation.

“Spending decisions we make in Washington impacts jobs here at home,” he said. “It impacts companies that do business with the federal government and their ability to hire people and expand.”

After touring a local business last year, Hudson introduced legislation directly in response to its concerns.

Hudson toured Southern Pines-based handbag company R. Riveter, founded by Army wives Cameron Cruse and Lisa Bradley. The women told Hudson during a tour that the Affordable Care Act limited their ability to hire more employees.

Hudson’s legislation encourages small businesses to hire military spouses by excluding them from determinations under the employer health insurance mandate since they already receive health care through the military’s Tricare system.