Washington, D.C. - With Rep. Rick Larsen’s urging and support, Naval Air Station Whidbey will soon see millions of dollars, if the U.S. House of Representatives has its way.  NAS Whidbey is slated to receive more than $17 million for construction projects as a result of the Military Construction Appropriations bill the House of Reps. passed yesterday.

“Military readiness is a top priority for me,” said Larsen who serves on the Military Readiness Subcommittee.  “These funds will help get our Prowlers in the air and give them a safe base to come home to.” 

Larsen continued, “I am committed to ensuring the safety and security of the dedicated women and men who serve in our navy.” 

Specifically, the Military Construction Appropriations Act of 2003 (H.R. 5011) allocates $9,180,000 for an Aircraft Direct Refueling Facility; $8,400,000 for an Ault Field Security Fence; and $180,000 for the planning and design of a new fire station for NAS Whidbey.

Larsen explained to appropriators, “At NAS Whidbey, all aircraft are refueled solely through the use of fuel delivery trucks.  Most EA-6B aircraft are fueled with their engines shut off, which is called cold refueling, requiring about two hours.  The continuing need for rapid turnaround of 14 EA-6B aircraft per hour, especially with increased operations tempo issues resulting from the war in Afghanistan, requires a direct refueling facility at NAS Whidbey.  The direct refueling station will allow for hot refueling, reducing down time and maintenance activities, in turn increasing readiness.”

Regarding the need for a Fire Station Addition, Larsen wrote, “The existing facility delays fire and ambulance response times required by NAVAIR due to its lack of direct access to flight line.  The facility also has a negative impact on the quality of life of female personnel who have no bunks or separate restrooms… Constructing this addition will allow NAS Whidbey to meet NAVAIR response time requirements improving safety and effectiveness of response crews and life of equipment.”

Larsen serves on the U.S. House Committee on Armed Services and the Military Readiness Subcommittee.  The Senate will vote on the military construction spending bill later this year, before the President can approve it.