VIENNA, Ohio – Over a thousand people work at Youngstown's Air Reserve Station in Vienna.
On Friday, the Air Force revealed changes planned for its nationwide operations and the local air base is included.
The U.S. Air Force restructuring plans will impact 60 installations in over 33 states.
The base in Vienna is home to the C-130 Hercules aircraft. They've flown in missions of war and mercy all over the world.
The Air Force plans to replace six aging C-130's at the local base. Four of them will be replaced with more modern versions of the aircraft.
A spokesperson from Congressman Tim Ryan's office says, "As we move forward with Congress' plan to cut half a trillion from the defense budget, everyone will be asked to make a little sacrifice. But news like this reminds us of Youngstown's resiliency and ability to come up with the best in situations."
Senator Rob Portman released a statement saying, "I'm concerned to hear of proposals to remove two aircraft from the 910th Airlift Wing. The unique aerial spray mission performed the 910th is a recognized and highly valued national asset we cannot afford lose. I will continue to address this issue with administration leaders to ensure we don't inappropriately jeopardize this capability."
So far it's unknown if the changes at the local airbase will include any reduction in personnel. That announcement won't be made for another month.
The news is much worse for a base in Pennsylvania. The 911th Airlift Wing in Moon Township near Pittsburgh will close. All seven C-130H2 aircraft and four KC-135 aircraft from that base will be retired.
