Smith and Mustio Secure Budget Funds to Support 911th Airlift Wing

In a bipartisan effort, State Sen. Matt Smith and State Rep. Mark Mustio together secured assurances that $200,000 will go to study, maintain and protect the Pennsylvania's military bases, including the 911th Airlift Wing in Moon.

Smith and Mustio worked with state Department of Community and Economic Development officials to ensure that appropriated funds from the DCED's General Government Operations budget line item would go to study the viability of state bases and help protect them from being reduced or closed by the Base Closure and Realignment Commission, or BRAC.

The U.S. Department of Defense decided in March to keep the 911th at full staffing levels through 2013 and 2014, and operate eight C-130 aircrafts.  

Smith said the funds will support the Pennsylvania Military Communities Protection Commission, which will conduct various studies, engage in outreach to the public and private sector, work with partners and stakeholder groups at all levels of government, and support projects that enhance the military value of Pennsylvania installations. 

While Mustio called the decision "promising," he cautioned that BRAC could potentially conduct a review of base operations again next year. 

Mustio said it's important for the state to remain vigilant to continue working together with state, county and local stakeholders to make a case for its military installations. 

Smith and Mustio’s districts include the 911th, the Pennsylvania Air National Guard 171st Air Refueling Wing, and the Army Reserve 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command as well as Pittsburgh International Airport. 

The Navy Operational Support Center and a state-of-the-art commissary will be operational in the near future.

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