(Washington, DC) - Congressman Wally Herger today met with Major General William T. Lord in his Washington office about the Air Force’s consideration of Beale Air Force Base as the permanent headquarters of the new Air Force Cyber Command.  General Lord indicated that in July or August 2008 the Air Force will narrow the field of bases being considered to about six bases.  The final decision is expected to be announced in November or December of this year.  A representative from Senator Barbara Boxer’s office also attended the meeting.  Herger made the following statement after it concluded:

"After meeting with General Lord, I can say with high confidence that Beale Air Force Base is receiving strong consideration for becoming headquarters for the new Air Force Cyber Command.

“I was very encouraged by General Lord’s clear familiarity with the strong attributes of Beale Air Force Base.  The General pointed out that Beale already performs 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 prospect for being awarded the Command.

“Of course, with some seventeen states seeking the Cyber Command, the competition is certainly tough.  But, as the process moves forward, I will continue to work closely with Air Force leaders and local Beale supporters in promoting what many believe are California and Beale Air Force Base’s unmatched attributes that make it the ideal location for the new Command.”