Congressman Don Davis Moves to Halt Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Job Cuts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) announces that a provision he authored will temporarily prevent the Air Force from divesting an F-15E combat squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (SJAFB) in Wayne County, North Carolina, has been included in the Chairman’s mark of H.R. 8070, the base bill for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. In March 2024, the Air Force announced its plans to divest 26 aircraft at the base, eliminating an estimated 520 jobs from Wayne County, one of the most economically distressed counties in the state.

“We aren't standing idly by as the proposed 520-job cut at Seymour Johnson threatens to damage eastern North Carolina's economy. The Air Force's plan to eliminate an entire squadron at Seymour Johnson is unacceptable,” said Congressman Don Davis. “I will continue fighting fiercely to keep all four squadrons in Wayne County and ensure economic stability in the East. Safeguarding our national security and preserving these jobs are not mutually exclusive, and the Air Force must be honest about that.”

The provision, part of the Chairman’s mark, requires the Secretary of the Air Force, working in conjunction with the Secretary of Defense, to enter into contracts and report on the risks involved in divesting F-15E aircraft. Following submission, there will be a 180-day wait period before any divestment occurs. “This provision will require the Air Force to be more transparent and accountable to the people of Wayne County and the Congress,” Davis added.

Additional Background: 

• On April 17, 2024, Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) questioned the Secretary of the Air Force on what communication he or his team had had with the local community, what the economic impact of divestment would be, and whether the Air Force planned to deliver the late report on force structure decisions.
• On April 2, 2024, Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging the Administration not to divest an F-15E aircraft fighter squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (SJAFB) in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Read the full letter here.
• On March 13, 2024, Congressman Davis delivered remarks on the House Floor regarding the changes at SJAFB. Full Video of Congressman Davis’ speech on the House Floor is here.
• On November 20, 2023, Congressman Davis toured Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (SJAFB) during an official CODEL visit to deepen his understanding of the operations and challenges of SJAFB, and to express unwavering support for the brave men and women in uniform.