Ernst Keeps Up Pressure for Sioux City Airfield Upgrades

WASHINGTON – During a Senate Committee on Armed Services hearing, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), secured a key commitment from the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, General David Allvin, to upgrade the runway used by the Iowa National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing in Sioux City.

Ernst, who served in the Iowa National Guard, pointed out the critical role the unit plays in defending the homeland and the Air Force’s previous commitments to it. Following her questioning, Allvin noted that design work progress is removing obstacles to be able to finish the runway upgrades.

Click here for her full line of questioning.

“Let me talk to you about Sioux City, those units there, and how proud we are of those units that have occupied this airfield,” Ernst said.

She reminded the committee that the airfield is named after Colonel Bud Day, a Sioux City native who was awarded the Medal of Honor and Air Force Cross.

Background:

Ernst is dedicated to supporting servicemembers and their families in Iowa. For years, she has pushed the Air Force to honor its promises to Siouxlanders. Earlier this month, Ernst reaffirmed her resolve to continue fighting.

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