Monday, June 20, 2005
Contact: Jessica Robinson, (573)751-0290
Blunt Testifies for National Security, Missouri Interests at BRAC Hearing
ST. LOUIS –Gov. Matt Blunt today helped make the case for Missouri’s interests and national security concerns related to proposed Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) recommendations.
"We accept the requirement to close or realign bases in the state, but some of the recommended decisions for Missouri run counter to the national security interests of the United States and contrary to the purpose of the BRAC process," Blunt said. "We want to make certain that the BRAC process fulfills its intended mission while creating a force structure that is compatible with defending the homeland against current and future threats."
Blunt joined local, congressional and military leaders this morning at the regional BRAC hearing to present arguments defending Missouri’s claims. Under proposed recommendations Missouri stands to loose almost 4,000 military and civilian jobs.
Three members of the nine member BRAC Commission heard Missouri’s arguments this morning. Senators Kit Bond and Jim Talent made opening remarks followed by three panels focusing on the Air National Guard’s 131st Fighter Wing at Lambert Airport in St. Louis, the Army Human Resources Command in Overland and the Defense Finance and Accounting Service offices in Kansas City and St. Louis.
Blunt made closing remarks and provided a recap of Missouri’s testimony. Main arguments included:
- Adopting the recommendations will lead to hole in the protection of our heartland and its critical infrastructure
- The failure of the Air Force to include the Air Guard input into their BRAC recommendations led to a disproportionate loss of Guard units, including the 131st
- The 131st is equipped with the F-15C and is equipped to provide ASA level support
- Human Resources Command should be consolidated at the St. Louis facility utilizing existing infrastructure
- The Defense Finance and Accounting Services are also important facilities that are well situated in our state and should be carefully examined