DEAR EDITOR:

As Executive Director of the Eastern Ohio Military Affairs Commission, I’ve had the privilege of advocating for the Youngstown Air Reserve Station and witnessing its impact on the Mahoning Valley.

To the outside eye, it’s impossible to comprehend the work that happens behind the scenes to keep military bases like YARS running.

In a recent op-ed, Congressman Dave Joyce of Ohio’s 14th Congressional District outlined his achievements for YARS and its surrounding communities. First off, I want to thank him for his work.

I had the pleasure of working for Sen. Rob Portman for eight years, serving as district representative and district director. Bringing federal funding for critical projects back to the district is no small feat, and Congressman Joyce did just that.

The new fire station, for which U.S. Rep. Joyce secured $25 million, is critical to our national security, and that $25 million will be injected into the economy in contracts and wages. The same goes for the $5 million he secured for runway resurfacing, which will ensure that YARS can continue to operate at the Youngstown Warren Regional Airport.

Dave Joyce’s leadership on the House Appropriations Committee is a major factor in securing this funding, and I am incredibly grateful for his advocacy for this district. As long as he represents this district, I am sure our tax dollars will continue to return to our communities.

JOSH PREST

executive director

Eastern Ohio Military

Affairs Commission

Cleveland