Westhampton - Four members of The Friends of the 106th Rescue Wing spent two days in Washington, DC recently meeting with members of the Long Island congressional delegation and other government officials to ensure the critical mission of the 106th Rescue Wing remains strong and substantial in the face of a possible resurgence of another BRAC (Base Realignment And Closure) round. Congressman Tim Bishop, a long-time supporter of the 106th, and his staff were critical in setting up direct meetings with key members of the congress including Congressman Steve Israel, Congressman Peter King and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. The group also met with staff of Senator Charles Schumer, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy, Congressman Gary Ackerman, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT 2nd), and Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA 2nd). Lengthy meetings were also held with staff from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The delegation was led by Friends Chairman Mike Jacobs. Completing the group were Southampton Town Councilman Chris Nuzzi; Suffolk Economic Development Department Intergovernmental Relations Coordinator Carolyn Fahey, who represented County Executive Steve Levy, and Hank Beck founder of GRIP, the immediate predecessor to The Friends.

The Friends of the 106th Rescue Wing, based in Westhampton Beach, New York is a not-for-profit organization committed to offering support to members of the 106th and their families; encouraging community support and coordinating local events for 106th members and families. There is no cost to become a member of the Friends of the 106th. To join the over 4,000 Long Islanders who are have already become members just go to www.friendsofthe106.org.