FORT SMITH — The Air Force’s chief of staff is to visit the 188th Fighter Wing in Fort Smith as the base is likely set for closure under a defense spending bill.
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh III on Thursday told the state’s Senate delegation that he wanted to visit the unit before a final decision is reached on its future.
The Southwest Times Record reported that Arkansas Sens. John Boozman and Mark Pryor had both urged Welsh to have a look at the base before making a closure decision.
The base flies A-10 jets, which are known for their ability to attack enemy tanks.
A date for the visit will be set later.
