WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the United States Air Force submitted its mandatory “Report on C-130 Force Structure” to Congress, outlining its plans to shutter the 440th Airlift Wing at Fort Bragg. In response to the report, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement:

“The report that was finally released to Congress after months of delay confirms that it has always been the Air Force’s intention to shutter the 440th Airlift Wing at Fort Bragg, a short-sighted decision that would negatively impact America’s rapid reaction and Special Forces during national emergencies.

“Many of the questions I have been asking Air Force leaders for months regarding the rationale behind the deactivation remain unanswered, and I will continue my hold on all civilian Department of Defense and Department of Air Force nominees. Additionally, I will continue to push for language to be inserted into the FY16 Department of Defense appropriations legislation that prevents the Air Force from relocating aircraft or personnel currently assigned to Pope Airfield.

“I will pursue all options available to help stop this strategically flawed plan from being fully implemented.”

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