Colorado Gov. Ritter Expresses Disappointment Over Anticipated Location Of The 24th Air Force

May 15, 2009 -- Colorado Governor Bill Ritter today issued the following comments on the U.S. Air Force's announcement that Lackland Air Force base in Texas has been selected as the preferred alternative to locate the Cyber 24th Air Force. The announcement was made as part of the Air Force's Environmental Impact Analysis Process. A final decision by the Air Force Secretary is expected upon completion of the EIAP.

"The Air Force's decision to select another base over Petersen Air Force Base is disappointing," said Gov. Ritter. "I believe Petersen would have been the best location for the new 24th Air Force. With the strong operational capabilities of the US Northern Command and US Space Command, as well as other military bases and supporting organizations, Petersen and Colorado provides an optimal framework to host the Air Force's strategic cyber mission."

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The 24th Air Force is expected to play a key role in enhancing America's national security, cyber networks communication functions, and strategic capabilities.

"The proposal coming from Colorado was very competitive, and our different communities did a great job outlining why Petersen was the best choice," Gov. Ritter further said. "The fact that Colorado was given such consideration speaks highly of our military capabilities and intellectual capital. Our robust constellation of defense and aerospace industries, our college and university system, and our unparalleled quality of life will continue to keep Colorado competitive in the future."

Out of the six finalists under consideration to host the mission, Petersen AFB was selected as the "reasonable alternative" to Lackland AFB and will also be reviewed in the impact analysis. Colorado will still benefit by having the Air Force Space Command at Petersen Air Force Base as the major command responsible for the new 24th Air Force cyber mission.

Source: Colorado Governor