Thanks to Chamber and others who helped with BRAC effort

September 5, 2005 1:06 am

I would like to say "job well done" to the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce for their management of our region's Base Realignment and Closure process ["BRAC vote applauded locally," Aug. 27].

Linda Worrell and the chamber's military affairs committee put together teams of experts who did a superior job of explaining the military value that each our three military installations brings to the war-fighting effort.

Three years ago, people said we were starting our BRAC advocacy program too late. Others said there was no way we could save the labs at Dahlgren.

Fortunately, positive leadership, a good story, and access to decision-makers not only protected what we have, but opened our bases to more opportunities.

Those who are interested in the continued economic vitality of our region owe a debt of gratitude to Linda Worrell, the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber, and those local businesses and municipalities that financially supported our BRAC education effort.

G. William Beale

Caroline