I appreciated reading Gale Voight's recent letter to the editor regarding the removal of Hill AFB from consideration by the 1993 Base Closure Commission. Voight chastised me for taking credit for this fortunate turn of events and insisted that credit be given to Hill's work force.
First, Voight is chastising me for something that I have not done. I have not made any statements anywhere claiming credit for independent actions by the Base Closure Commission, over which I have no control. Nevertheless, I was very pleased with their vote.Second, I wish to commend Voight for his insight. During my years in Congress, I have been delighted with the excellent reputation that Hill's work force has enjoyed throughout the Department of Defense. It has not gone unnoticed. Hill AFB and the Ogden ALC are legendary for productivity and creativity.
These are certainly important factors that are weighed by the Department of Defense and the Base Closure Commission when making difficult choices between competing installations for closure or realignment.
Rather than spend time debating who should and shouldn't get credit for this year's favorable actions, I believe we must refocus our efforts on staying competitive and doing what we can as Utahns to ensure that Hill AFB remains a viable part of our nation's defense.
James V. Hansen
Member of Congress