Senators Stabenow Statement on Selfridge Air National Guard Base Deployment

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today issued the following statement regarding the announcement that 350 airmen and 12 A-10 Thunderbolt II planes will be deployed to the Middle East to fight the Islamic State as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.

"For so many families in Michigan, the fight against ISIL is deeply personal. Today, that fight is personal to many more families as these Airmen from Selfridge Air National Guard Base deploy to the region. The A-10 Warthogs are the very best close air-support aircraft in the United States military. We in Michigan are proud of our fleet, which has done so much over the years to protect our nation. I join Michigan families everywhere in wishing these 350 Airmen Godspeed as they embark on their important mission, and we remember especially their families and friends who will stay behind and support them with their prayers as well."

More than 4,000 full-time civilian and military personnel work at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The base contributes hundreds of millions of dollars to Michigan's economy each year. In March, Senators Stabenow and Peters sent a letter to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense requesting full funding of the A-10 program.