US Air Force responds to NM senator’s letter about Cannon AFB

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. –There is an update about the decision to move a squadron from Cannon Air Force Base to a base near Tucson. 4 Investigates broke the news a few weeks back.

New Mexico senators met with the Air Force assistant secretary in charge of installations last week, urging him to maintain a strong presence at the base – which is just outside Clovis.

On that same day, Dr. Ravi Chaudhary promised, “a significant presence at Cannon as a premier power projection wing.”

That’s a message that echoes what special operations command told KOB 4 last month.

“Today we secured a commitment that Cannon Air Force Base will remain a stronghold for the Air Force well into the future. The importance of Cannon to Clovis, Curry County, and New Mexico cannot be overstated. Cannon is also indispensable to our national security. With the New Mexico Congressional Delegation and our strong local partners in Clovis, I will continue to advocate at the highest levels to strengthen our investments and long-term commitment to Cannon’s future success,” said Sen. Martin Heinrich.

The special ops squadron –  that’s moving – numbers about 350 active duty airmen and women.