JUNCTION CITY — Barton Community College President Dr. Carl Heilman was one of at least 2,000 people who reportedly listened to more than three hours of public comments Monday, at a listening session about possible reductions at Fort Riley. He spoke in favor of keeping personnel at current levels at the base, as did U.S. Senators Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran, and Gov. Sam Brownback.
Also joining the congressional delegation were U.S. Representatives Tim Huelskamp, Lynn Jenkins and Mike Pompeo.
Dr. Heilman addressed the crowd and went over some of the points that college has compiled that highlight the mutually beneficial relationship that the military and communities share. BCC has offered programs at Fort Riley for more than 30 years. The administration estimates the annual benefit to the U.S. Army via Barton programs is $4.4 million.
“The Barton story is a wonderful story to share,” Heilman said at the meeting. “We provide each year higher education opportunities to thousands of soldiers and their family members. … We’re very pleased and very proud to serve those who sacrifice so much for us.”
The military plans to cut the size of force from 490,000 to 420,000. The estimated reduction for Fort Riley is 16,000 soldiers and civilians, although no decisions have been made yet.
The Topeka Capital Journal reported on the meeting, quoting Brig. Gen. Roger L. Cloutier Jr., who led the U.S. Army delegation to Fort Riley. “You can sense the bond between the community and the installation,” he said. “I like what one lady said, ‘We are one family.’ That really came through loud and clear.”
Cloutier Jr., executive officer to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said decisions on reductions won’t be made until early spring or late summer. Fort Riley was the 16th of 30 stops at U.S. Army bases on the tour.
On the web:
Heilman: We are proud to serve
