Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) commended President Bush for agreeing to a final Base Closure and Realignment Commission (BRAC) list that recognizes the military value of Washington state including Naval Station Everett and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. The BRAC list submitted to and approved by the President represents a final recommended list of U.S. military installations to close or realign.  Within 45 days Congress can oppose the list by voting it down, but Congress cannot amend it.
 
Larsen issued the following statement on the list:
 
“Local communities, the Governor and the entire Washington State Congressional Delegation worked hard to make the case for our state. We were successful.  I am pleased that we could put out good information and set up the right meetings to get the message across.

“Our local bases survived the BRAC attack.

“This final BRAC list paints a positive picture of the future at NS Everett and NAS Whidbey, one with new missions and opportunities to secure our nation both at home and abroad.

“The emerging military focus on the Pacific Theater makes our bases in the Pacific Northwest strategically and geographically critical. The Pentagon clearly recognizes our military value and the exceptional quality of life that we offer to the servicemen and women stationed here.

“NAS Whidbey has emerged as the national center of electronic warfare and anti-submarine warfare operations. The final list shows that our civilian leadership and military are committed to keeping it that way for years to come.

“We’ve always known that Everett was the ‘Sailor’s Choice,’ the Department of Defense made it the Pentagon’s choice and in 45 days it will become the nation’s choice.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I will keep working to bring new assets to NS Everett and NAS Whidbey.
 
Larsen serves on the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. During his first two terms in Congress, he served on the Committee’s Readiness Subcommittee that oversees the BRAC process.  Since coming to Congress he has worked with his colleagues in Congress and his district’s military communities to help prepare for the BRAC round.