Press Releases

Washington, D.C. - On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the House Armed Services Committee passed through committee the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included two of Congressman Jodey Arrington’s (TX-19) amendments honoring 19-year-old Lubbock native Private Second Class Caleb “Smitty” Smither, who died on active duty at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. 

Congressman Jodey Arrington’s amendments: 

1. Directs the Army to report to Congress on the implementation and enforcement of “Smitty Check” protocol, which was developed in response to Caleb Smither’s death, requiring the Army to thoroughly monitor service members following an injury; and 

2. Requires the Department of Defense disclose on medical records whether a service member received care from a DoD doctor or a civilian doctor. 

“Caleb’s dream was to be a soldier in the United States Army and serve his country, but his service was tragically cut short by an accident on his base. Had the Army required certain safety protocols, Caleb’s life would likely have been saved,” said Arrington. “Thanks to the tenacity and determination of Caleb’s mother, Heather, we were able to introduce legislation to hold Army contract personnel accountable as well as develop safety protocols to ensure this doesn’t happen to someone else in the future. Heather raised the finest of young men in Caleb, who represented West Texas with the highest honor and sacrificed his very life for the country he loved.”

“This is truly remarkable news and full circle experience after four years of solid work being Boots on the Ground advocating with Jodey Arrington and my attorney Daniel Maharaj who have been by my side in this journey since January of 2020,” said Caleb Smither’s mother Heather Baker. “Their tenacity in pressing for answers and trusting me as I have sought justice for my son, PV2 Caleb Smither, gives me hope for our Service Members and their families. I know that I cannot bring Caleb back, but this legislation has the potential to address and close loopholes that will protect future soldiers and their families, and this has been my ultimate goal. It brings healing and pride to my heart knowing Caleb’s “Smitty Check” has the potential to save many lives.”

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I was proud to work with Rep. Arrington to put forth NDAA amendments that will improve accountability and ensure the Army is adequately tracking our soldiers’ care while in service,” said Congressman Luttrell. “I know the driving force behind this legislation is personal to Texas’ 19th District. As a veteran, I greatly appreciate Rep. Arrington’s dedication to ensuring our service members receive the care and support they deserve.”

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