Friday, January 17, 2014, Juneau, Alaska – On the first day of session, Representative Doug Isaacson and Senator John Coghill will jointly introduce in their respective houses a resolution in support of housing F-35 aircraft at Eielson Air Force Base. The Air Force plans to have homes for more than 1750 F-35s by 2035.

“The community engagement that saved Eielson AFB and highlighted the benefits of its strategic location is the same energy that can bring the F-35s to expand Eielson’s mission,” Isaacson, R-North Pole, said. “This resolution tells the Department of Defense that this community says, ‘Yes we want the F-35 at Eielson!’”

The resolution highlights some of the strengths of Eielson Air Force Base to the strategic protection of the United States, such as location, unfettered air space, existing infrastructure and complementary army support making the selection of Eielson one of the best choices for the next round of base selection.

“Locating the F-35s at Eielson is good for America, Alaska and the Air Force because of our Polar and Pacific location, the patriotism and support of Alaskans, and training space excellence,” Coghill, R-Fairbanks/North Pole, said. “We look for ways to be supportive to our country in this great national and international security management. This resolution is our invitation to the nation.”

The as yet to be numbered resolutions will be filed in both houses Tuesday, Jan. 21, when the Legislature reconvenes.