Jones Reacts To Navy's Decision On The Olf And Super Hornet Squadrons

Third District Congressman Walter B. Jones today focused on the economic benefits that Super Hornet jets will bring to Eastern North Carolina and promised to continue to work with those affected by the Navy's decision. The Congressman's statement followed the news of the United States Navy's conclusion that two squadrons of Super Hornet fighter jets be stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. "I have long said that Washington County was not my preference for the outlying landing field (OLF) site. During this process, I have worked with the Navy and advocated the many merits of a parallel runway. However, the Navy made this decision based on the very important training needs of our pilots and a balance of the environmental impacts among all the proposed sites." "Now that the decision has been made public and put on the record, it is an appropriate time to sit down with the Navy, local officials and those affected to mitigate any potential negative impacts and more concretely define the road ahead. I pledge to continue to work with all parties involved. While the process is not final, it does signal the beginning of the next important phase." "Despite the decision to place the OLF in Washington County, I would venture to say that nearly all would agree that the placement of two Super Hornet Squadrons at Cherry Point is great news for the economy of Eastern North Carolina and for the future of our military bases. Each additional squadron will bring the region an added $10 million annual economic benefit and will result in an upfront investment of at least $14 million for military construction," Congressman Jones said today. For additional information or to schedule an interview with Congressman Jones contact Lanier Swann at (202) 225-3415 or via email at lanier.swann@mail.house.gov.