Lexington, Missouri – Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO) announced today that the Secretary of the Army has approved a plan to modernize the AH-64A Apache Attack helicopters assigned to the Missouri National Guard’s 1/135th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, which is located at Whiteman Air Force Base. 

          “I have been informed by the Army that the Missouri National Guard Helicopter Battalion at Whiteman will be refitted with the Longbow.  The upgrades will begin to arrive at Whiteman in October 2011, and a total fleet of 24 helicopters will be completed by May 2012.  When completed, the Missouri National Guard’s modernized helicopter battalion will include 8 more helicopters than are currently stationed at Whiteman,” said Skelton. 

          Skelton also noted that the Air Force 498th Munitions Maintenance Group Headquarters staff, currently located at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, will be transferred to Whiteman in the next few months.  Approximately 12 people will transfer to Whiteman, the home of the B-2 bomber, to give group leadership important exposure to bomber operations.  As previously announced, active duty Air Force personnel will be increased by 234 airmen and five civilians, being attached to the Bomb Wing.  Next year, 101 Reservists in the Air Force A-10 Wing will be transferred to another base.

          Skelton stated that Whiteman Air Force Base continues to grow in importance for America’s national security.  “I am extremely proud of all who are stationed at Whiteman, as well as the surrounding communities who support them so well.”

          Whiteman is also the home of a Navy Reserve unit.  

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Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO) serves as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee . For further information, please contact Rebecca Loving at 202-225-2876, or Lara Battles at 202-225-2539, or check Congressman Skelton’s website at http://www.house.gov/skelton.