Sen. Casey: Air Force Should Close Golf Courses Before 911th Airlift Wing

Sen. Bob Casey, D-Scranton, questioned the Air Force's move to close the 911th Airlift Wing while continuing to maintain 65 Air Force golf courses throughout the world, according to a statement from his office. 

The Air Force has planned to close the Moon-based airlift wing and each of its eight C-130 tactical aircraft as a part of a $4.7 billion initiative aimed at curbing federal defense spending. Other bases, including the 171st Refueling Wing in Moon, are set to undergo realignment under the plan. 

"The 911th is an economic catalyst for southwestern Pennsylvania and an important part of our national defense that has no business being closed," Casey said. 

Members of Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation last week met with military officials to prevent the base's closure. On Tuesday, civilian and military personnel on the base will learn the Air Force's future assignments for them after the base's closure. 

Casey, who on Friday toured the 911th, questioned the Air Force's authority to close the base without Congressional approval, given that it employs more than 300 civilian personnel. 

Below is a letter Casey sent to Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley. 

Dear Secretary Donley:

I am writing to reiterate my request for the analysis that led to the decision to remove seven C-130H assets from the 911th Air Wing in Pittsburgh, PA and the accompanying decision to close the base.  I disagree with this course of action and I respectfully request a thorough review and reversal of this decision.  As soon as possible please provide this analysis which I expect will include the civilian manning documents and a comparison of the cost efficiencies across Air Force Reserve bases.

I fully support and appreciate the Pentagon’s efforts to reduce spending and find efficiencies, but this process must be transparent in order to maintain my confidence and that of my constituents. Some of the proposals in the Air Force’s budget request do not appear to make fiscal sense.  For example, I understand that while the Air Force plans to retire 65 C-130Hs, it will continue to maintain at least 65 golf courses at bases around the world.  The Air Force has stressed the need to implement structural changes due to the budgetary restraints.  As you continue the budgetary planning process, I would ask the Air Force prioritize and protect our experienced reservist community and the assets associated with their bases.

Thank you for your service to our Nation and commitment to addressing our ongoing budgetary concerns.  I look forward to your reply.     

Sincerely,

Robert P. Casey, Jr.

United States Senate