| May 12, 2004—On behalf of Mayor Joan Shafer of Surprise, Peoria Mayor John Keegan delivered 10,000 post cards from residents throughout the state of Arizona expressing their support and appreciation for Luke Air Force Base to U.S. Congressman Trent Franks at his Washington, D.C. office.
"It is very encouraging to see the overwhelming support within the state of Arizona for Luke AFB and our troops," Franks said. "It sends a strong message to the Air Force that the communities in the West Valley and those across the State are committed partners with Luke AFB and are dedicated to continuing to provide an ideal setting for Luke to carry out its vital mission."
Franks will notify the Air Force of the local support for Luke and will deliver this message to the BRAC Commission when it is established in early 2005.
Mayor Joan Shafer began the postcard project in August 2003, to demonstrate and convey to Congress how the people of Arizona feel about Luke AFB.
The campaign ended March 27 with "The West Valley Goes to Bat for Luke Day," an event where West Valley mayors and leaders joined in honoring Luke Air Force Base during a spring training baseball game at Surprise Stadium between the Texas Rangers and Chicago White Sox.
This expression of support comes on the heels of the strong united efforts from the entire Arizona Congressional Delegation, State Legislators, local Mayors, and communities supporting the mission of Luke.
"These post cards represent the voice of the people of Arizona who appreciate what the troops at Luke AFB do for their country," Franks said. " I am honored to receive their message and to personally relay it to the Air Force and the Department of Defense."
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