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Northern CA’s Beale AFB in Running for Cyber Command
The Air Force is creating a new Cyber Command to help defend our nation against cyber attacks on our nation’s computer networks, weapons systems, and financial markets.  Beale Air Force Base, located in Yuba County, is being considered as the Command’s headquarters.  I recently met with Major General William T. Lord to discuss why I and many others believe Beale is the ideal location for it.

General Lord is the commander of the provisional Cyber Command located in Louisiana.  After meeting with him, I can say with high confidence that Beale Air Force Base is receiving strong consideration.  I was very encouraged by General Lord’s clear familiarity with the strong attributes of Beale.  The General pointed out that the U-2 and Global Hawk spy planes deployed from Beale already perform important cyber operations.  He also noted that the ability to establish partnerships with high tech industries and universities is critical to determining where to locate the Command.  He indicated that California’s Silicon Valley and high tech community throughout the state, as well as its university system, is what the Air Force is looking for. 

Further, he stated that he was tremendously impressed by the unanimous support of California’s fifty-five member Congressional delegation in urging the Air Force to consider Beale Air Force Base as headquarters for the Cyber Command.  The General also noted the local Beale community’s incredible support of the base.  The unparalleled support among California lawmakers and the local community unquestionably bolsters Beale’s prospects for being awarded the Command.

The Air Force is expected to announce the permanent headquarters for the Command in November or December of this year.  With some seventeen states seeking the Cyber Command, the competition is certainly tough.  But as the decision-making process moves forward, I will continue to work closely with Air Force leaders and the local community in promoting the unmatched attributes of California and Beale AFB.