Thirty-thousand workers across America, including thousands of IAM members, are thankful that a bipartisan group of senators approved the continued funding of the C-17 Globemaster cargo plane.
By a 64-36 vote, the Senate rejected Sen. John McCain’s (R-AZ) amendment to end production of popular plane and approved the 2010 Defense Appropriations bill that includes an order for ten more C-17s. The continuation of the C-17 program saves over 30,000 jobs in 43 states, from IAM members who make the engines in Connecticut to the assemblers in California and all the parts suppliers in between.
“Continued production of the C-17 Globemaster will help ensure America’s ability to support our troops, as well as our aerospace industrial base and the quality jobs associated with one of the last industries in which the U.S. is an export leader,” wrote IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger in his letter to all Senate members last week.
The high-tech C-17 is a massive and versatile cargo plane known for its ability to land on short, bumpy runways, and has been especially beneficial in Iraq and Afghanistan. C-17s are able to deliver troops, supplies and equipment to the battlefield quickly and efficiently. Because of its versatility, the C-17 has also been used in humanitarian efforts to rapidly deliver vital goods at times of natural disasters in the U.S. and around the world.
Wed. October 07, 2009
Shame on you John McCain.Tue. October 06, 2009
Here in Long Beach, CA it is always a thrill to see this massive, yet quiet, airgoing behemoth taking off from Long Beach Airport or coming in on final approach a couple of hundred feet off the deck above Border's Books on Bellflower Blvd which lies below the flightpath to the runway. This airplane, useful both in war and in peace, deserved funding. And frankly we need the high-wage jobs this project provides. Kudos to the U.S. Senate!+Tue. October 06, 2009
One of the leaders of the Senate fight has been Connecticut Senator Chris Dodd. This added C-17 work will help keep up to 3,000 people employed in our state, making up for the cancellation of the F-22 program. Senator Dodd continues to fight for Connecticut jobs. He understands the critical importance of our industrial base. A lot of people will continue to bring home paychecks and support their families and communities thanks to his efforts.