Jim Cooper in 2001-2009 gubernatorial press release

On Homeland Security: 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."