Wilson Statement on BRAC Announcement

Today, Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) made the following announcement regarding the Department of Defense's (DOD) Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) recommendations: "Today is a great day for the Second District of South Carolina. The Department of Defense has reinforced its commitment and confidence in Ft. Jackson, Parris Island, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, and the Beaufort Naval Hospital," said Wilson. "The BRAC Commission's announcement comes after years of hard work and coordinated efforts by military, community and Congressional leaders who worked tirelessly to promote and protect our bases. Since I was elected to office, protecting our bases and securing additional missions at our installations have been my top priorities. I am thrilled that our hard work has paid off, and I will remain committed to these crucial tasks. "The Department of Defense's continued confidence will provide additional missions on our bases. Necessary military construction that was deferred by the BRAC process will now be able to proceed, providing even more jobs and greater economic opportunities to our communities. I'll continue to work for an increase in construction and improvements at our bases. House Armed Services Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-CA) praised Congressman Wilson's efforts:"Supporters of Ft. Jackson, Parris Island, MCAS Beaufort and the Beaufort Naval Hospital can thank Joe Wilson for his steadfast leadership in making the case for these installations," said Rep. Duncan Hunter, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.  "Joe works non-stop on behalf of our troops and our military infrastructure – and that's paid off.Congressman Wilson also made the following statements regarding the specific bases: Ft. Jackson "Ft. Jackson has been entrusted to play an even larger role in providing the Army with well trained, disciplined and skilled soldiers who are prepared to fight in the War on Terror. The over six hundred new positions gained at the Fort are expected to provide substantial economic growth throughout our community. Parris Island "For almost a century, Parris Island has served one of the premier birthplaces of America's Marines," said Wilson. "The Department of Defense clearly remains confident in Parris Island's ability to prepare Marines to defend our country. Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort"As the home to one of our largest aircraft groups, MCAS Beaufort is playing a vital role in the War on Terror," said Wilson. "Today's announcement recognizes and furthers the tremendous military and economic value of the Air Station. Beaufort Naval Hospital"As the primary medical facility for the Beaufort military community, the Naval Hospital is helping to keep our military families healthy," said Wilson. "I will continue to promote the hospital's valuable and necessary role in our community. ###