(Washington, D.C.)  - Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) led a delegation of Spokane leaders to the Pentagon today to meet with Secretary of the Air Force Michel Donley and other high-ranking military officials to discuss efforts to bolster Fairchild Air Force Base, the largest employer in Eastern Washington.

"I was delighted to lead the ‘Forward Fairchild Team’ in these important meetings which directly affect the future of Fairchild Air Force Base and the Spokane community,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers. "We had an excellent exchange of ideas and information that will bear positive results for the people of Eastern Washington."

One of the key topics at today’s meetings was replacing the aging KC-135’s at Fairfield Air Force Base and the acquisition process for the KC-X.  The KC-X Tanker competition has experienced numerous delays since the process began in 2006 and the Congresswoman is working to ensure it remains a top priority for the Air Force.

Other topics include the future of the Survival School, which is a very important part of Fairchild.  The 36th Rescue Flight houses four helicopters that have saved more than 630 lives.  There were also fruitful discussions about how to help Airmen and their families.  As the Co-chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, Rep. McMorris Rodgers has raised awareness about the needs of military spouses and their children. 

Rep. McMorris Rodgers taped a brief video to offer her reflections and analysis of today’s meetings.  Click here to watch it. 

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