In the News

Ellmers to Air Force: Prove Ft. Bragg doesn't need air wing

By The Associated Press, WCTI-Ch. 12

Washington, February 9, 2016 | comments
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers wants the Air Force to prove it can cover Army airborne operations out of Fort Bragg without an airlift wing based there.

Local media outlets report that Ellmers met Monday with military leaders and the chief of the Air Force Reserve. The meeting came days after the Army signed off on an Air Force plan to deactivate the 440th Airlift Wing based at Pope Field.

Ellmers' district includes Fort Bragg and says Congress has 90 days to review the decision. She wants the Air Force to prove it can cover the airlift needs of Fort Bragg with crews from elsewhere.

The congresswoman says she would prefer the 440th not be deactivated for two years so a new president and new defense leaders can review the idea.

The article above appeared in WCTI-Ch. 12, February 9, 2016