August 24, 2005
BRAC VOTE TO KEEP GROTON SUB BASE OPEN
STATEMENT BY STATE REP. TED MOUKAWSHER
“In the long and distinguished history of Groton, Connecticut as the submarine capital of the world, today’s vote by the BRAC Commission will be forever remembered for the contributions of so many in our community and state to preserve and perpetuate that legacy. With unending gratitude for the bipartisan efforts of our governor, our congressional delegation and our legislative delegation and leadership I particularly wish to express my admiration and respect for the monumental efforts of our Sub Base Realignment Coalition. This ad hoc, grassroots organization has for the third time in the last fifteen years prevailed against the forces that have sought to close or severely diminish the center of excellence that is Sub Base New London. The Coalition has been preparing for this day for over two years. This was their most difficult challenge; the Pentagon shortened the time to respond and withheld critical data and records. Despite these nearly insurmountable obstacles the Coalition made the critical case to the BRAC Commission through John Markowitz on the military value of the Sub Base and the costs and manpower implications through Gabe Stern. We, in Southeastern Connecticut will forever be indebted to our own, the members of the Sub Base Realignment Coalition, who have once again fought heroically to preserve our way of life and our national security.”
Rep. Moukawsher serves the 40th Assembly District in which the sub base is located. He is vice-chair of the Environment Committee and is a member of the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding committee and Banks Committees.