May 13, 2005—Today Congressman Franks applauded Secretary of Defense Donald A. Rumsfeld for recognizing the value of Luke Air Force Base. Luke was not included in the list of bases slated for closing in the current round of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC).

“We truly went to the wall to ensure that Luke could be maintained as a viable military installation that meets the needs of the Air Force and helps them fulfill their mission,” said Rep. Franks. “We are grateful beyond words that Secretary Rumsfeld has recognized Luke’s value and wisely chosen to keep it in operation.”

“It’s important that our nation’s civilian and military leadership periodically review the force structure to ensure that our nation’s precious defense resources and infrastructure is efficiently allocated,” said Rep. Franks. “The BRAC process is an essential component of that review. It is a real testament to the cooperation between the Air Force and the West Valley cities that, despite significant growth in the area around Luke, they were able to maintain the facility’s usefulness as a place where pilots who are so necessary to the defense of the nation can get the best training in the world.” 

The list of bases submitted by the Pentagon will now be reviewed by the BRAC Commission. The list must be submitted to the President by September 8. The President has until September 23 to approve or disapprove of the list. If he disapproves, the commission has until October 20 to revise the list. By November 7, the President must certify the list and submit it to Congress. Congress has 45 days to pass a motion of disapproval of the list or it automatically becomes law.