WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Daniel K. Inouye and Daniel K. Akaka announced today that the Army has decided to permanently base a Stryker Brigade at Hawaii's Schofield Barracks, and that the unit will conduct its required training at military training sites in the state.

The Army's decision followed its full review of the final environmental impact study, which examined basing options for a Stryker Brigade.

Senator Inouye said:  "I am pleased that the Army's primary rationale for selecting Hawaii reflects what I have been saying: that Hawaii's strategic location best serves our national security needs and provides the best protection for our troops by allowing them to properly train nearby prior to a rapid deployment to dangerous locales in the volatile Asia-Pacific region.

"I am certain the Army's decision came after it carefully weighed all the factors, including environmental concerns, in the environmental impact study before it came to its decision."    

Senator Akaka added: "I am pleased the Army has reviewed the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the permanent stationing of the 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii, and will make its record of decision publicly available on Friday. 

"I am confident that in making this decision, the Army has carefully evaluated and weighed our national security needs with concerns for our unique environment.  We can and must find a balance between preserving Hawaii's natural and cultural resources, and our need to make sure our brave men and women in the military have the training they need to fulfill their missions."

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