On the recordDecember 7, 2010
Madam Speaker, Beaufort, South Carolina, is home to the Marine Corps Air Station, professionally commanded by Colonel John Snider. The Marine Corps Air Station plays a critical role in our national security operations and is home to six Marine squadrons and one Navy squadron, with an economic impact of $615 million annually. I hope the future is about to grow even brighter for Beaufort this week as we are optimistic that the final environmental impact study promotes F-35B squadrons in this great and historic community. It has been a pleasure to work with Senator Lindsey Graham to highlight Beaufort's pro-military community, mild climate, and existing facilities which provides for year-round training to military leaders including Marine Corps Commandant James Conway. If Alternative I is chosen to support the F-35s, Beaufort can expect to see over 1,500 new jobs and hundreds of private sector high-tech jobs, as promoted by the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce led by President Carlotta Ungaro and the Military Enhancement Committee chaired by General Garry Parks. I look forward to expanding the Sound of Freedom in the Lowcountry. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. ____________________





