Air Mobility Command has sent more than 45 members of the 621st Contingency Response Wing, McGuire AFB, N.J., aboard two supply-laden C-17s to Pakistan to help orchestrate aerial relief operations. Additionally, the Pentagon has dispatched Army helicopters from Bagram AB, Afghanistan, and Navy helicopters from Bahrain. USAF C-130s and C-17s flying in personnel and supplies have delivered more than 300,000 pounds. (See also DR, 10/11/05)
As Congress looks to delay passage of a new federal funding package until after the November elections, the Air Force is warning that even a three-month gap would harm national defense. “[Continuing resolutions] immediately disrupt major exercises and training events, affect readiness and maintenance, curtail hiring and recruitment actions, and…