Senator Kissel Thrilled Connecticut Able to Save 103rd Fighter Wing

State Senator John A. Kissel (R-Enfield) was extremely pleased with the announcement today that Connecticut will retain its Air National Guard’s 103rd Fighter Wing located at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks. Governor M. Jodi Rell joined Connecticut Adjutant General Thaddeus J. Martin and Attorney General Richard Blumenthal at a press conference today at the State Armory announcing the retention of the Fighter Wing. The announcement means that more than 400 jobs that support the mission will stay in Connecticut.

“Certainly, this is wonderful news not only for Windsor Locks, but for the entire State of Connecticut. I would like to commend Governor Rell, Adjutant General Martin, and Attorney General Blumenthal for their tireless efforts to ensure that the Fighter Wing remains where it belongs,” said Senator Kissel. “I am extremely happy that the Fighter Wing will continue to provide protection to the State and its citizens and that the over 400 jobs will remain here in Connecticut.”

Senator Kissel has been a strong advocate for keeping the Fighter Wing at Bradley. He joined three other fellow legislators representing Northern Connecticut in writing to Defense Base Closing and Realignment Commission Chairman Anthony J. Principi in 2005 urging him to reject the Pentagon’s proposal to move the Fighter Wing to Massachusetts.

Senator Kissel is a Deputy Minority Leader and represents the communities of East Granby, Enfield, Granby, Somers, Suffield, Windsor, and Windsor Locks.