A new fight is underway to save hundreds of jobs at Niagara County's largest employer.
Niagara Falls Military Affairs Council Vice Chairman John Cooper says the Pentagon's downsizing plan is "one of the most serious threats to the existence of the 107th Airlift Wing to date."
If Congress goes along, 845 positions, including those of nearly 600 part-time Air National Guardsmen would be eliminated. It is part of the Defense Department's plan to save nearly $500 billion over the next decade.
Cooper says NIMAC fought to save the base before and is ready to do so again.
"We question exactly what process what used to come to this decision and why Western New York should be asked to take 16 percent of the hit in manpower for the Air National Guard nationwide," Cooper said.
Unlike what happened in 2005 when the facility was targeted by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission, Niagara Military Affairs Council Chairman Merrell Lane says this decision could come quickly. If Congress approves, the cuts would likely take effect by October at the start of the 2013 fiscal year.
"This whole process is a lot different than the BRAC. The BRAC was a long, drawn out, methodical look at things. This is an Air Force leadership decision," Lane said.
The commander of the 107th, Col. James McCready, says the proposed elimination of the Airlift Wing is "like a hit in the stomach."
The Air Force Reserve's 914th Airlift Wing is not affected.
