Boswell Releases Statement on Proposed Air National Guard Cuts

Statement

Congressman Leonard Boswell (IA-3) today released the following statement regarding the USAF's proposal for the 132nd Fighter Wing.

"I'm going to fight this tooth and nail. The 132nd Fighter Wing is, without question, the finest and most cost-effective F-16 Fighter Wing in the Air National Guard. Retiring its F-16 wing would be a terrible decision considering how beneficial this unit has been for the country. The 132nd Air Wing is one of the most award-winning fighter wings in the county as it greatly exceeds all expectations in maintenance, mission readiness, effectiveness, and overall efficiency. When compared to the standing Air Force, the Air Guard provides some of the most cost-effective protection for our country.

"Even compared to other Air National Guard F-16 Wings, it has the lowest military personnel cost, is second lowest in flying cost and it fulfills its deployments with over 90-percent volunteers who average over four combat tours. Keeping them intact is just plain common sense.

"This fighter wing represents the best of the best. To lose them would be doing a disservice to Iowans and the entire country. I strongly urge the Air Force to take a closer look at what this F-16 fighter wing represents and can accomplish in its service to the United States."

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