Assembly member Henry T. Perea introduced a resolution today, urging the White House, the Secretary of Defense, and the Air Force, to remain committed to the 144th.
Proposed cuts were announced last week in the defense budget that could close Fresno's 144th Fighter Wing.
Under the proposed cuts, the air guard units here, and in Riverside, would be shut down.
West coast defense coverage would be split among units in Oregon, Montana, and South Dakota.
Perea says the closure could leave the west coast vulnerable.
"The 144th is responsible for paroling the entire west coast, and in a matter of hours can mobilize six jets in addition to another 12."
Perea says relying on another state's defenses could take up to 72 hours.
So, he introduced a resolution to save the base, asking congress and the department of defense to hold it's commitment to the 144th Fighter Wing here in Fresno.
"There has been a lot of rumblings about the 144th specifically and so what we are trying to do is get out in front of it before it becomes a line item within the federal budget."
The reason for the resolution, as it states, is "To prevent any negative impacts to southwest air defense operations, the California economy, and the ability of first responders to protect the residents of this state."
The closure could put National Guard workers in the unemployment line.
"So really what we are talking about is thousands of jobs and a huge economic impact to the Fresno communities."
In response to the budget cuts, its adjutant general calls the National Guard the nation's most cost effective and flexible weapon, and "an invaluable asset to California and a nation that are not willing to compromise security and support for our citizens amid this difficult financial season."
Assembly member Perea expects bipartisan support of his resolution, he says, on behalf of armed services, as well as the economy.
The state assembly will vote on the resolution this Thursday.
TXT 24
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