May 13, 2004 - Congressman Adam Smith (D-Tacoma) announced today that he has secured $2 million dollars in funding for the planning and design of the 66^th Aviation Brigade building at Camp Murray.

The current facilities were constructed in 1941 as temporary facilities to support the activation of forces for World War II. These buildings were to be removed in the late 1940’s or early 1950’s but the Korean War and Vietnam War required their continued use.

“These facilities are well past their useful life and are inadequate for current use,” said Smith. “Our men and women in the National Guard deserve better.  The lack of proper facilities affects the readiness of our troops and it is essential that are men and women in uniform are the best equipped and best trained in the world.”

Smith requested funding through the 2005 Defense Appropriations bill. It is expected that this bill will be finalized before Congress adjourns this year.