Opinion Editorial: Vital Runway To Reopen in Los Alamitos

After years of planning, preparation and construction, the airfield at Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) will once again be fully operational and capable of supporting all military missions. Los Alamitos Army Airfield will resume normal aviation operations this month.

The completion of repairs to Runway 22 left (22L) allows airfield support for natural disasters and emergencies by accommodating all military and civilian aircraft. At 8000 feet in length, 22L is the longest runway in Orange County and capable of accommodating various large transport aircraft and most other military aircraft. These capabilities enhance the California Army National Guard's mission to support Southern California during a time of crisis and for contingency training.

The local communities and political leaders have been instrumental with their support during the completion of this project. The California National Guard (CNG) Senior Military leadership appreciates their understanding and vision of how valuable this airfield is to the residents of Southern California. The reopening date of the runway is scheduled for June 14 2011. Los Alamitos Army Airfield is the last remaining military airfield in the greater LA/Orange County areas and is the disaster support area for Southern California.

The base has been part of the community since 1942 when the base was a US Navy Air Station and since 1973 with the National Guard.

Tom Lasser is a retired Lt. Colonel and former Airfield Commander at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base. He flew more than 1,000 helicopter missions in Vietnam and has earned numerous honors including the Purple Heart, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Legion of Merit, the Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medals and the Bronze Star.