(Washington, D.C.)  Congresswoman Cathy McMorris (WA-05) today met with U.S. Air Force Commander General Duncan McNabb at Fairchild Air Force Base to discuss the future of Fairchild and the need for replacement air refueling tankers. McMorris, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, has been vocal on the need for new air refueling tankers.

“I am very encouraged by my meeting with General McNabb and am confident that Fairchild will be the first base to receive replacement tankers,” said McMorris. “He gave his assurance that he hopes to bring the first fleet of KC-X tankers to Fairchild Air Force Base because of the training capabilities, ramp space and the great support from the community. Fairchild is strongly positioned for the KC-X because of the presence and cooperation of active duty, reserve, and 141st Air National Guard units. With the support of Forward Fairchild we are moving forward with our goal to expand the mission of Fairchild and General McNabb showed his appreciation for the continued hard work and commitment of the community.”

McMorris and General McNabb also discussed the consolidation efforts to make Fairchild a joint operations base.

“I was very pleased to hear from General McNabb that moving the Army Reserve Center onto Fairchild is progressing.” said McMorris.