Reactions to Pentagon’s proposals for Nevada military bases

Friday, May 13, 2005 | 9:03 a.m.

Reactions to the Pentagon's proposals for Nevada military bases:

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"Congress and the Department of Defense have spent tens of millions of dollars in recent years building a premier weapons demilitarization capability at Hawthorne Army Depot. It plays a major role in our country's national security. Likewise, the Reno Air Guard is playing a critical role in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and in the global war on terror." - U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., who called the proposed closure of Hawthorne and downsizing at Reno Air Guard station "troubling."

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"Nellis Air Force Base remains a key component of our ongoing effort to ensure that America's military is prepared for the challenges of the 21st century. As one of the world's premier centers for air warfare training, Nellis is critical to the mission of the Air Force." - Rep. Shelley Berkley, D-Nev.

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"Make no mistake, the BRAC Commission will certainly hear from me ... and the citizens of Reno, Sparks and Hawthorne as to the importance of keeping the C-130s at the Reno-Tahoe Air National Guard Station and the Army Depot up and running in Nevada." - Rep. Jim Gibbons, R-Nev.

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"I am committed to making sure our military has the training and resources it needs while we continue to be good stewards of the taxpayers' money." - U.S. Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev.

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"There should be a great deal more thought and discussion regarding Hawthorne's situation, as well as the Reno realignment...This is only the beginning of the process, and I fully intend to take an active role in ensuring the best possible outcome for our state." - Gov. Kenny Guinn.

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"Hawthorne has been a one-of-a-kind location. I would hate to see it close." - Sen. Mike McGinness, R-Fallon, whose district takes in Hawthorne.

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"Based on capabilities, we anticipated to remain in the structure." - Lt. Col. Johnny, commander, Hawthorne Army Depot.

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"We were hoping to finally be heading up instead of heading down...It just means we have to work harder." - Shelley Hartmann, executive director, Mineral County Economic Development Authority.