Press Releases
Rep. Young Comments on Air Force Decision to Move F-16 Squadron, Retire C-130s
Washington D.C.,
February 3, 2012
Tags:
Defense
Alaskan Congressman Don Young released the following statement today in response to the Air Force’s announcement to move all F-16 fighter aircraft from Eielson Air Force Base to Elmendorf Air Force Base:
“Today’s announcement by the Air Force concerns me greatly. We should not be moving personnel and equipment - especially C-130s that are crucial to search and rescue missions throughout Alaska - farther from the Arctic when we’re on the verge of finally realizing the potential of what the Arctic has to offer. I believe Fairbanks has a vital role in America’s military future and quite frankly serves as the northern anchor of the Pacific Rim and this country’s gateway to the Arctic.
"That is why I have made a request that the Air Force come in and brief me on how they plan to meet the President’s new strategic objectives in the Pacific. I want to know why this decision has been made especially after Fairbanks fought – and won – this relocation battle in 2005. I look forward to hearing what they say as well as working with the Governor and the rest of the Alaska delegation to resolve this.”
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