Again
It's starting to feel like a bad remake of "Groundhog Day."
Once again – there's an effort to cut military costs and realign bases.
This time it's the National Commission on the Structure of the Air Force.
It was created last year after the political slug-fest over base closings –
That nearly shut down the 911th Airlift Wing in Moon Township.
The commission is supposed to study the structure of the Air Force –
And recommend changes by February first.
Since the future of the 911th seems to be continually at risk –
Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey didn't waste any time.
He sent a letter to the commission –
Enumerating the financial and tactical benefits of the 911th.
By now – he and others elected and civic leaders –
Should be able to recite the "pluses" of the base in their sleep.
It's both cost-effective and efficient –
With a highly skilled workforce.
Plus - the Department of Defense has spent millions over the past five years –
To expand its military footprint in the Pittsburgh area.
The D-O-D should realize –
Once and for all –
That the 911th Airlift Wing is still the best bang for the buck.
That's why it should be kept open.