WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Renee Ellmers (R-NC-02) issued the below release following the Air Force’s announcement to move forward with deactivation of the 440th Airlift Wing located at Pope Army Airfield on Fort Bragg.
“Even after the hardships experienced during Operation Toy Drop and reports of monthly jump requirements falling well-short of the 18th Airborne’s intended goal, the Air Force marches forward with the decision to deactivate. The bottom line is that the Air Force has already demonstrated they cannot meet their promise to provide sufficient airlift to Fort Bragg paratroopers.”
“Moving forward, the name of the game is accountability. I believe the Air Force made a poor decision, and I intend to hold them true to their word that there will be no impact to military readiness or our paratroopers’ ability to train. I will continue to monitor monthly jump numbers, and will instate monthly calls with Army leadership to ensure that military readiness is not jeopardized.”
