Military Base Consolidation Could Bring Savings

Patch reader James R. Kester shared with us a letter he plans to send to local officials, including U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy, R-Upper St. Clair; Rep. Jason Altmire, D-McCandless; and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. In it, he suggests his ideas for local military realignment. 

Gentleman, 

Please refer to the above subject regarding federal military budget proposal by the President, Feb. 13, 2012. 

I would suggest the following consolidation strategy based on several factors, including cost savings, personnel requirements, economic apportionment, glide path requirements and, above all, civil defense and military strategic effectiveness.

This would involve combining three Air National Guard units at one centralized facility near Clarksburg, WV. The 171st Air Refueling Wing, Coraopolis, PA, and respective Airlift Wings, 130th, Charleston, WV.; and 167th, Martinsburg, WV.

It should be noted that the city of Martinsburg, WV, is currently enjoying an economic upswing, perhaps due to its proximity to the nation's capital. Both Clarksburg and Charleston's recent census consensus appears to reflect flat to negative conditions. However, the Charleston region, as a capital city, will likely sustain a level growth rate due to its stabile demographic.

The CKB Airport in Clarksburg recently integrated some upgrades under the Economic Stimulus Program. Its current improved 700-foot main runway might provide the impetus to evaluate this proposal and if favorable could conceivably support this strategy. In addition, the criminal justice information services division of the FBI might enjoy additional support services via these air transportation resources and exceptional personnel. 

To further identify other regional assets, which might serve to support this consolidation, is the proximity of West Virginia University and associated campus in nearby Morgantown. 

I trust this information is useful regarding current BRAC activities in process. I have provided supporting links below. Thank you for your continued service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States Congress. 

Respectfully submitted,

James R. Kester

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