WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a positive development for Central Alabama, U.S. Reps. Martha Roby and Mike Rogers and U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions have been notified that the Air Force has altered its strategic guidance proposal and no longer plans to relocate C-130 aircraft from the 908th Airlift Wing stationed at Maxwell Air Force Base.
While the decision is not final, the Congressional leaders have been assured that the current plan no longer calls for removal of the seven aircraft from Maxwell. The lawmakers had been working together to keep the Air Force accountable for a proposed decision that could affect more than 550 jobs.
“This is obviously welcome news for Montgomery and the River Region, but especially for the men and women of the 908th and their families,” Rep. Roby said. “It is also personally gratifying to receive this news after working alongside Senator Jeff Sessions and Congressman Mike Rogers to keep Pentagon decision makers accountable on this relocation plan. From legislation to personal communication with top commanders, we have used all the resources at our disposal to respectfully demand answers to questions surrounding the fiscal justification of this planned move, and I believe our efforts have paid off. We will remain diligent, however, knowing that the decision is not final.”
Senator Sessions, who has played a key role in developments surrounding the 908th Airlift Wing, praised the decision and expressed his determination to keep working until the change was final.
“The 908th has been decorated with the Air Force’s Outstanding Unit award,” Senator Sessions said. “They are source of pride to us all. We have been in close contact with the Air Force and are encouraged by the news that they no longer plan to relocate C-130 aircraft from Maxwell. The decision is not final, but this is positive news and I will continue to advocate for the 908th Airlift Wing as the Air Force reaches its final decision.”
Rep. Rogers echoed his colleagues’ sentiments, saying Alabama’s Congressional delegation will continue to engage this issue until it is finally resolved.
“I am encouraged that the Air Force has listened to our delegation’s concerns,” Rep. Rogers said. “This is far from final and we will continue to work closely with Congresswoman Roby and the rest of the delegation to keep the pressure on.”
