Outlines Vision for Fairchild

as Part of Stronger U.S. National Security

Spokane, WA- Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) addressed Greater Spokane Incorporated’s Armed Services Committee today, outlining a vision for Fairchild Air Force Base as part of a revitalized, 21st century military. In her speech, Rep. McMorris Rodgers also discussed her recent trip to Afghanistan, her work as Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, and other topics.

“Right now, we have pilots at Fairchild who are flying tankers which are more than 50 years old,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers. “That is not consistent with our goal of having a modern, state-of-the art Air Force. The Air Force’s recent decision to award Boeing a $35 billion contract to build the next generation of tankers allows us to move forward – and not a moment too soon. Now our goal is to make sure those planes are flying over Fairchild!”

On Apr. 7, 2011, Rep. McMorris Rodgers coordinated and attended a meeting between 30 GSI leaders and high-ranking military officials, including Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, to discuss the importance of Fairchild AFB and the new tankers. She also recently met with Boeing President Jim McNerney about those same topics.

On Apr. 12, 2011, Rep. McMorris Rodgers joined First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden at the White House to launch Joining Forces -a national initiative to educate, challenge, and spark action from all sectors of society to ensure military families have the support they deserve. Joining Forces closely mirrors four important issues the Caucus is working on: Employment, education, wellness, and public awareness.

“The brave wives, husbands, sons and daughters who hold down the fort back home are the bedrock of our community and the backbone of our country,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers in today’s speech. “We thank them. We honor them. We cannot forget them.”

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