WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) released the following statement today on the Army's announcement of its intention to release the Final Environmental Impact Statement that identifies Schofield Barracks Military Reservation in Hawaii as the Army's preferred alternative for the stationing location the 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division as a Stryker Brigade Combat Team:
"I am pleased the Army has recommended Schofield Barracks as the preferred alternative for stationing the 2/25 Stryker Brigade Combat Team.
"Since October 5, 2006, when the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals directed the Army to prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement to consider alternative sites for the permanent location of the 2/25 BCT, I have strongly urged the Army to carefully weigh the many important national security and environmental concerns in this vitally important decision.
"The Army has briefed me on their decision, and I am confident that in this supplemental EIS, the Army has carefully considered the strengths and weaknesses of each alternative location. It is my understanding that the Army's recommendation to permanently base the 2/25 BCT in Hawaii supports their efforts to ensure strategic deployment capabilities in the PACOM region, provide optimal training opportunities for the 2/25 BCT, and offer the highest quality of life for our soldiers and their families.
"As Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, which has jurisdiction over environmental compliance by the Department of Defense, I remain committed to protecting our environment in Hawaii and across our great country. I firmly believe we can preserve our State's natural and cultural resources while meeting our military's training and national security needs. I look forward to the Army's publication of the final supplemental EIS in the Federal Register on February 22, 2008 and encourage members of the community to take the opportunity to read the full report once it is released."
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