NASHVILLE, TENN. – Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) gave this statement following the announcement that the Army has decided to increase heavy lift capacity within the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell:

“What a win for Fort Campbell. This long-sought activation will bring 12 Chinooks and 200 military personnel to our state. Most importantly, it will increase the ability of the Screamin’ Eagles to ‘fight tonight’ in this new era of Great Power Competition. Tennessee is fortunate to have this great military installation in the Volunteer State!”

BACKGROUND

The Army is activating a Heavy Lift Company of 12 CH-47 Chinook helicopters and increasing capacity of the associated aviation maintenance battalion, both at Fort Campbell, Ky. The activation of the company and the associated increase in maintenance capacity will result in an increase of approximately 200 military personnel.

In her position on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Blackburn has been a tireless advocate for activation of a Heavy Lift Company within the 101st, through avenues including public hearings and the annual National Defense Authorization Act.