2001-2009 gubernatorial press release: on Homeland Security

Brad Henry: Honor Flight Network: fly vets to DC to visit their memorial

The governor announced that Oklahoma has become an official state hub of Honor Flight Network, Inc., a national non-profit organization that raises private funds to organize and finance trips to the nation's capital at no cost to the veteran. The hub designation, Oklahoma Honor Flights, allows the state chapter to raise funds to help pay the costs of Oklahoma veterans.

"It's a shame to think that many Oklahoma veterans may never get to see or experience the national monuments dedicated to their service and sacrifice," said Gov. Henry. "With the help of Oklahoma Honor Flights, we can salute their heroism and give them the chance to see their national memorials in person. We owe so much to our veterans and this is a small way to demonstrate our gratitude for their service."

Brad Henry: Full confidence in DHS during Threat Level Orange

The increase in the Oklahoma and National Threat Levels does not affect general aviation airports or passengers. "I have been, and will continue to be, in direct consultation with the Oklahoma Homeland Security Director, as well as federal Homeland Security officials," said Gov. Henry. "I have full confidence in the homeland security, law enforcement and aviation communities in our state, and I ask that Oklahomans be patient in the coming days and weeks as the airport security personnel do their jobs to ensure public safety."

Jim Cooper: Keep the 118th Air Lift Wing in Tennessee

"I applaud this effort by Governor Bredesen," said Congressman Jim Cooper. "We have a great facility here in Nashville and one of the best flying units in the entire Air National Guard. The 118th is proven and ready, and has performed valiantly every time they have been called on to serve."

"The 118th Air Lift Wing plays a key role in disaster and emergency response and recovery in Tennessee, including major disasters such as tornadoes, floods and earthquake activity along the New Madrid Fault, which runs through West Tennessee," the motion stated. "Removal of the eight C130 aircraft from the 118th Air Lift Wing would deprive the State of Tennessee of these critical Homeland Security functions."

Phil Bredesen: Keep the 118th Air Lift Wing in Tennessee

The lawsuit asks the courts to declare that the Department of Defense may not realign the 118th and relocate its eight C130 aircraft to other states without the Governor's consent. Bredesen's lawsuit is based on federal law which states that an Air National Guard unit cannot be withdrawn from a state without the consent of the Governor.

Bredesen noted that the changes likely would lead to the loss of more than 700 personnel, while the loss of the eight C130 aircraft would severely hamper future response to "natural disasters, terrorist acts and other catastrophic circumstances."