NJ Congressman urges Pentagon against future BRAC
Most members of the New Jersey Congressional delegation have signed a letter urging Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel not to go forward with any military base closures in the defense budget.
Freshman U.S. Rep. Tom MacArthur (R-3rd Dist.) whose district is home to the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, is leading the effort to stop future closings under the Pentagon's "Base Realignment and Closure" process (BRAC), calling another round of closures a "mistake."
" I worry it would negatively impact our military’s readiness and the overall strength of our national defense,” MacArthur said.
He credits former 3rd District Congressman Jim Saxton (R) for his efforts in 2005 that led to the formation of the country's only tri-service military base and Ocean County's second largest employer, contributing $7 billion to the economy.
During an interview on WOBM AM's "Ask the Congressman" program Thursday night, MacArthur said he has the support of a number of Democrats and Republicans, including Reps. Donald Norcross (D-1st Dist.), Frank LoBiondo (R-2nd Dist., Chris Smith (R-4th Dist.), Frank Pallone Jr. (D-6th Dist.) and Leonard Lance (R-7th Dist.).
There is concern that a new BRAC poses a significant threat to a smaller base such as Lakehurst, or the entire Joint Base, according to Saxton, who has formed the New Jersey Defense Enhancement Coalition to fight any possible closure. He also expressed concern that the Army, Navy and Marine Corps may transfer missions to other bases.
President Obama visited the Joint Base in December to commemorate the end of United States military operation in Afghanistan; many military personnel began their assignments at the Joint Base.
Dianne DeOliveira contributed to this report
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