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ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - U.S. Rep. Sanford D. Bishop Jr., who represents much of Southwest Georgia, has been named the Association of the United States Army’s 2025 Legislator of the Year for his work supporting servicemembers, military families and national defense.

Bishop, a Democrat, received the honor Thursday, Jan. 8, in Washington, D.C. Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District includes several major military installations, such as the Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Fort Benning in Columbus and Robins Air Force Base, which serve thousands of military families across the region.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from AUSA. With major military installations in our district, advocating for servicemembers and their families is not only a responsibility, but a core part of our community.”

The Association of the United States Army said Bishop was selected for his bipartisan leadership and long-standing commitment to the Army community.

“Rep. Sanford Bishop has long championed America’s Army and those who serve,” said retired Gen. Bob Brown, president and CEO of AUSA. “His efforts have made a meaningful difference for soldiers, veterans and military families.”

The Legislator of the Year award is presented annually to members of Congress who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the Army and advance policies that strengthen the nation’s defense. Bishop was recognized for his leadership on the House Appropriations Committee and his support of the Total Army, including active-duty soldiers, the National Guard, Army Reserve, civilians, veterans, caregivers and survivors.

During his time in Congress, Bishop has worked on legislation and funding initiatives aimed at improving military housing, expanding educational and childcare programs for military families, supporting military spouse employment and strengthening Guard and Reserve units that play critical roles in disaster response across Georgia.

As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Bishop has helped secure funding to improve readiness and modernization at installations across the state, including the Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, a major economic driver for Southwest Georgia.

Bishop co-founded the bipartisan Congressional Military Family Caucus in 2009 and currently serves as its Democratic co-chair. He co-hosts the group’s annual Military Family Summit, which was held in August at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center at Fort Benning.

Working with Republican co-chair Rep. Jen Kiggans of Virginia, Bishop has also introduced legislation aimed at improving military housing conditions and reducing the strain of frequent relocations on military families.

Texas Republican Rep. John Carter was also named a 2025 AUSA Legislator of the Year.

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