From the Webb campaign...
Webb To Fight Against Downsizing Of U.S. Military Presence In VAWebb Questions Motives for BRAC Decision
Today, Jim Webb questioned whether the BRAC Commission+óGé¼Gäós decision to close the Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach was "politically motivated" and vowed to lead the charge +óGé¼GÇ£ as Virginia+óGé¼Gäós next U.S. Senator +óGé¼GÇ£ to prevent future closings of military installations in Virginia.
"This facility belongs in Virginia," said Webb, a former U.S. Secretary of the Navy. "As a U.S. Senator, I will not allow political considerations to play a role in decisions that negatively impact the military+óGé¼Gäós presence in Virginia."
The DOD Inspector General ruled today that Virginia was not in compliance with the requirements laid out by the BRAC Commission for keeping the Oceana NAS in Virginia Beach. The 200 aircraft and all support personnel currently based at Oceana NAS will be relocated to Cecil Field outside of Jacksonville, FL.
"I am confident that Commonwealth and area officials made every effort to effectively resolve any concerns involving encroachment put forth by the Commission," said Webb.
"I can not help but to ask if political favoritism played a role in this decision."
Jim Webb is a decorated Marine, former Secretary of the Navy and Assistant Secretary of Defense, an award-winning author and widely respected journalist. Webb was awarded, among other decorations, the Navy Cross and Silver Star for valor as a Marine.