(Spokane, WA) This week, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell met with General Arthur Lichte, Commander, Air Mobility Command, to reinforce the important role Fairchild Air Force Base plays in our region’s economic security and our national security. Gen. Lichte oversees the air refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force. The Congresswoman and Senators released the following statements following Tuesday’s meeting:

“Strengthening and expanding Fairchild Air Force Base is one of my top priorities. Basing the next generation of air refueling tankers there and strengthening the partnership between the 141st Air National Guard and the 92nd Refueling Wing are integral parts of that,” McMorris Rodgers said. “I thank Gen. Lichte and Senators Murray and Cantwell for their support and their commitment to the future Fairchild AFB and the valuable role it plays in Eastern Washington and in protecting our nation.”

“The growth and strength of Fairchild Air Force Base is not only important for Washington State, but it is critical to the safety of our entire country. The airmen and women at Fairchild are putting themselves in harm’s way to protect the freedoms we hold dear and they deserve the most advanced and safest equipment our nation can provide. Our Congressional delegation spoke with one voice as we reinforced the need to continue to invest in the future of the base and continue our progress together,” Senator Murray said.

"Given its strategic location, Fairchild Air Force Base is a critical component for the safety and security of not only Washington state, but for the country as well," said Cantwell. "I was pleased to hear General Lichte say that he saw no deterrents to Fairchild, or its association, from being able to receive the new tankers. I will continue working with Senator Murray and Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers to protect the future of this integral base."

This meeting is a follow up to a May meeting between McMorris Rodgers and Gen. Lichte. The two have worked together to strengthen the role of Fairchild AFB and enhance the relationship between the 92nd Air Refueling Wing and the 141st Air National Guard unit.

Contact:
Destry Henderson
202-225-2006
202-279-0418