Hartzler opposes military base closings

Fourth District Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler says now is not the time for base closings. From her news release:

Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-4), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, took a strong stand this week against any new round of military base closings. Hartzler made Missouri’s case in a letter to House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee Chairman Randy Forbes. Hartzler’s action follows a speech by Massachusetts Senator John Kerry who predicted that every military installation in America will be under Defense Base Closure and Realignment (BRAC) discussions heading toward 2015.


“I believe the best BRAC decision to make involves one which ensures that we are not in a position to have these discussions in the first place,” Hartzler wrote in her letter to Congressman Forbes. “With all the emerging threats in the world, now is not the time to talk about base closings. We need a stronger defense posture, not one that is weakened by base closings.”

“I am proud to represent two vital installations in my district, Fort Leonard Wood and Whiteman Air Force Base,” added Hartzler. “Both installations embody key missions and should not worry about BRAC.”

In her letter, Hartzler points out the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman AFB is one of only two Air Force units operating the B-2 stealth bomber, with the Whiteman unit capable of launching combat sorties directly from Missouri to any spot on the globe.

“I ask you to commit to supporting a strong military and work to ensure that we do not have to consider any BRAC proposals,” concluded Hartzler. “It is imperative for our future strength and readiness.”