Congressman Bentz Supports FY27 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Bill, Secures Inclusion of $80 Million for Kingsley Field

WASHINGTON, D.C. --Today, Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-02) voted YES for the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, legislation that includes $80 million for the construction of an Academic Training Center at Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base in Klamath Falls.  The bill now passes over to the Senate.

The funding supports the 173rd Fighter Wing’s transition to its future mission as an F-35A Lightning II training base and represents a major investment in military readiness, pilot training, and Southern Oregon’s economy.

Congressman Bentz has worked closely with Air Force leadership, the Oregon Air National Guard, and local stakeholders to support Kingsley Field’s transition and ensure the base remains a critical component of America’s national defense infrastructure.

Congressman Cliff Bentz said: “I voted YES for the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill, which includes $80 million for Kingsley Field’s Academic Training Center. This funding is an important step forward as the 173rd Fighter Wing prepares for its future mission as an F-35A training base. Kingsley Field plays a critical role in our nation’s defense and remains an essential economic driver for Southern Oregon. I look forward to continuing to support the 173rd Fighter Wing and the Klamath Falls community as preparations for the training mission move forward.”

Colonel Gaudinski said: "Kingsley Field’s Academic Training Center is more than a building. It is a forge for America’s future Air Warriors. As one of only three facilities in the entire United States Air Force dedicated to shaping and sharpening F-35 pilots, it stands as a national treasure where excellence becomes readiness, and readiness becomes Air Supremacy. Through the steadfast leadership of Rep. Cliff Bentz and the unwavering support of our Southern Oregon community, Kingsley Field continues to project global combat power from our hometown heroes. The world-class facility does not simply train pilots. Rather, it builds the confidence, discipline, and dominance required to defend our nation anytime, anywhere. Kingsley is Always Ready, Always There.”

The Academic Training Center will support the infrastructure necessary to train future F-35 pilots and help position Kingsley Field at the forefront of next-generation fighter pilot training for years to come.
 

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