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Garamendi, Pompeo Bipartisan Amendment to Recognize Air Mobility Command Passes House of Representatives

May 18, 2012

WASHINGTON, DC—Yesterday, Congressman Mike Pompeo (R-KS) and Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA) introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act recognizing the 20th year of the Air Mobility Command and the critical role Mobility Air Forces play in our national defense (text of the amendment linked here). The amendment passed the House of Representatives today as part of a larger "en bloc" amendment. As co-chairs of the bipartisan Mobility Air Forces Caucus, the lawmakers wanted to draw attention to, and seek recognition for, the Air Force's functional command for cargo and passenger delivery, air refueling, and lifesaving aeromedical evacuation services.

Thumbnail image for GaramendiatTAFB.jpg"Air Mobility Command remains one of the Air Force's most vital missions, and it's an honor to help shepherd its continued vitality in Congress," said Garamendi, who represents Travis Air Force Base, home to the 60th and 349th Air Mobility wings. "When national disasters strike, when quick entry into hostile territory is necessary, when life and death moments are measured by the minute, Air Mobility Command is our military's lifeline."

"Whether providing humanitarian relief in the South Pacific or troops to Afghanistan, air mobility plays a central and essential role. As a Kansan, I have seen this great work firsthand at McConnell Air Force Base and Forbes Field, but it is replicated across the country,” said Rep. Pompeo. “I want to recognize and thank the 134,000 active-duty airmen, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, and Department of Defense civilians that comprise the Air Mobility Command for their hard work. I also want to thank General Raymond Johns, the current commander of AMC, for his tremendous leadership."

The Congressional Mobility Air Forces Caucus aims to:
• Raise awareness of the critical roles that air refueling, airlift and aero medical evacuation play in our national security. Air mobility plays a support role in America's overall strategic defense, and it is crucial that Members of Congress, the media and the public become more aware of the vital functions that air mobility serves.
• Establish a forum for exchange among Members who are committed to promoting air mobility. Many Members of Congress represent districts with air mobility bases or with industries that supply air mobility platforms. It is important that Members are able to discuss issues related to air mobility as they emerge in Congress.
• Ensure Members' access to the most accurate and up-to-date information about developments in air mobility. For Members of Congress to serve as effective advocates for air mobility, it is critical that they are informed about shifting on-the-ground challenges as well as new mobility air forces and industry developments.
The Caucus will maintain a visible presence on Capitol Hill and host regular meetings to promote and advance its cause of strengthening air mobility.