Washington, D.C. - Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire, U.S.
Rep. Rick Larsen and the Washington state congressional delegation sent a
report today to the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) outlining
the military value of Washington state military installations.

The governor and the entire congressional delegation signed the letter
accompanying the report, urging the commission to adhere to the BRAC
criteria and put military value first when they consider the initial base
closure list. That list will be released by the Department of Defense in
May.

In February, Larsen and members of the congressional delegation delivered a
copy of the report to Pentagon officials when they joined Gov. Gregoire for
meetings there to discuss the BRAC process. The military-value report
resulted from a collaborative effort between Washington state congressional
offices, the governor and local communities.

"Washington's military bases are huge economic engines for our state," Gov.
Gregoire said. "But, more importantly, they are strategically placed to
enhance our national security and protect our nation's interests throughout
the Pacific Rim. We can't afford to lose these bases economically or
strategically."

"Once again, Washington state's leaders - in Congress and at home - are
working together and speaking with one voice in support of our state's
military value," Larsen said. "This report shows the BRAC commissioners that
Washington state provides important military value now and can expand our
assets and capabilities in the future."

The delegation's letter accompanying the report reads: "Washington state
soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines are our national treasure. They are
serving bravely in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have recently played a central
role with tsunami relief in Southern Asia. We are proud of those who serve,
and we are proud of the unique network of capable installations that our
state provides in their support."

Delegation members signing the letter included: U.S. Sen. Patty Murray; U.S.
Sen. Maria Cantwell; U.S. Reps. Norm Dicks, Jim McDermott, Doc Hastings, Jay
Inslee, Adam Smith, Brian Baird, Cathy McMorris and Dave Reichert.

By law, the Secretary of Defense must submit to Congress and the BRAC
Commission by May 16, 2005, a list of bases that he recommends for closure
or realignment.