Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 25, 2003
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Visits NAS Whidbey Island to Express Support for Military Personnel

Gov. Gary Locke today visited Naval Air Station Whidbey Island to meet with and express support for military personnel. Maj. Gen. Timothy Lowenberg, director of the Washington State Military Department, joined the governor on the visit, along with Reps. Dave Quall, D-Mount Vernon, and Jeff Morris, D-Anacortes.

“Thank you for your willingness to serve our country in defense of freedom, peace and security for the entire world,” Locke said. “We admire your courage and salute your efforts. Our state and country owe you a debt of gratitude for your service.”

Locke, Lowenberg, Quall and Morris met with Rear Admiral Len Hering as well as other officers, sailors and naval aviators. The group also took a tour of several facilities on NAS Whidbey Island.

“As a nation, we ask these good men and women to stand ready at a moment's notice, to leave their families and friends, to put their lives on the line on our behalf,” Quall said. “We're grateful to them for the career choices they have made, and for those who have already headed overseas. We're hoping for their safe and speedy return.”

The governor is visiting bases around the state to meet with and express his support for men and women in the armed services. In addition to today’s visit to NAS Whidbey Island, Locke met with National Guard troops at Camp Murray, Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base in Pierce County last week. He also met with soldiers and airmen at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane on March 11.

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