FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 13, 2005

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi Announces Recommendations to Base Realignment and Closure Commission

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi today recommended former Congressman Vic Fazio of California and Wade Sanders of California to President Bush for nomination to the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission. 

Vic Fazio represented California's Third District in the House of Representatives for 20 years.  He was active in the Democratic leadership, including serving as Chair of the Democratic Caucus, and was a senior member of the powerful Appropriations Committee.  He also served on the Armed Services, Budget, House Administration, and Ethics Committees.  Mr. Fazio served in the California State Assembly, and is the co-founder of the publication California Journal.  He is currently the co-managing partner of the Washington office of the consulting firm Clark & Weinstock.

"Vic Fazio's service in Congress, particularly on the Military Construction Subcommittee of Appropriations, gave him a keen understanding of the scope and complexity of the support requirements of our armed forces," Pelosi said.  "Vic appreciates the need to balance the requirements of the communities that are home to military installations with the interests of the nation.  He is a man of principle and vision, and would serve with distinction on the BRAC Commission."

Wade Sanders served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President Bill Clinton and was involved in earlier efforts to realign and close bases.  A graduate of the Naval War College, Mr. Sanders served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, and was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and Purple Heart.  He currently works as an attorney in San Diego.

"Wade Sanders has served his country on the frontlines of combat and in the highest levels of the Department of Defense," Pelosi said.  "He understands the military and the lives of military families.  His experience with the base closure process would be of great assistance to the BRAC Commission as it undertakes its important work."

By law, the President and the Democratic Leader of the House consult on one of the nine nominations to the Commission.  All nominations must be confirmed by the Senate.  The Commission is charged with making recommendations for the realignment or closure of military installations in the United States. 

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi