Tyler O'Neill is reporting for Spectrum News Democrat U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan was appointed January 27, to the House Committee on Armed Services and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, his office said. Ryan represents the redrawn 18th Congressional District. The Armed Services Committee handles defense policy, military operations, and the organization and reform of the Department of Defense and Department of Energy. Ryan served on this committee during his previous term. "I maintain my commitment to ensuring our service members and military families are properly supported to preserve and promote America’s security, prosperity and values both at home and abroad," he said. Ryan served in the U.S. Army as a combat intelligence officer from 2004 to 2009, including two tours in Iraq. The Congressman will also serve on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, which oversees all modes of transportation nationwide. "Whether you take Metro-North to New York City, travel Route 17 through Orange County or need improved broadband in Dutchess County, I will fight every day to make sure that funding comes right back here to the Hudson Valley," Ryan said in a statement. Read the full story at spectrumlocalnews [dot] com.