Jack Reed is a champion for middle-class families. Born and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island where his father was a school custodian and his mother was a homemaker, Reed learned that through hard work all Americans should have the opportunity to build a better life. Reed attended West Point (class of ’71) and went on to serve in the 82nd Airborne Division as an Infantry Platoon Leader, a Company Commander, and Battalion Staff Officer. In 1996, Reed was elected to succeed Claiborne Pell (D-RI) as Rhode Island's 46th U.S. Senator. Today, Reed continues to serve the people of Rhode Island as a member of the Appropriations; Armed Services; and Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs committees.