Final answer:
The U.S. government supports national security through funding of biotechnology research, as seen with federal grants to the NIH which enhance biodefense and economic innovation, as well as advancement in fields like microbial forensics.
Step-by-step explanation:
One action of the U.S. government that best supports the observation that biotechnology research and development play an important role in maintaining national security is the funding provided for medical and biotech research through federal grants. For instance, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which is financially supported by the government, substantially contributes to the economy and innovative medical advancements. The NIH-supported research is not just an economic booster; it's also a key player in protecting public health against threats, including bioterrorism and pandemics. Furthermore, disciplines like microbial forensics have become critical in tracing biological threats and enhancing biosecurity, showcasing the integral role of government-supported biotech research in safeguarding the nation.