434th ARW pumps $130 million into the civilian economy Published Dec. 1, 2010 GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind., -- Every year, KC-135 Stratotankers from the 434th Air Refueling Wing pump millions of gallons of jet fuel into fighter, bomber and cargo aircraft during aerial refueling missions around the globe. At the same time, the 434th ARW--through annual expenditures, payroll and job creation--pumps millions of dollars into the local Indiana economy. For the past fiscal year, from October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010, the economic impact was more than $130 million, an increase of $26 million when compared to the previous fiscal year. The major components of the 434th ARW's economic impact included $32.2 million for normal operating expenditures such as materials, equipment, supplies, contracts and construction projects; $56.2 million in payroll for the wing's military and civilian workforce of more than 2,000; and $41.9 million in job creation. The increase in the 434th ARW's economic impact when compared to the previous year was in the areas of annual expenditures and job creation. Using a standard government formula, it is estimated the 434th ARW's presence in the area indirectly created almost 800 jobs for the local economy. "The 434th Air Refueling Wing is proud of the accomplishments of its personnel who have continued to have a world-wide impact in support of the Air Force mission," stated Colonel William "Tim" Cahoon, commander of the 434th ARW. "The wing is equally proud to have a major economic impact on the Indiana economy. Our day-to-day operations, construction projects and workforce opportunities make major daily economic contributions to the local area." The 434th Air Refueling Wing is one of the key units in the Air Force Reserve Command and its personnel and KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft routinely deploy around the world in support of various Air Force missions. In addition to the 434th ARW, Grissom is home to organizations from the Marine Corps Reserve, Army Reserve, and Civil Air Patrol. The economic impact of these units is not included in the data referenced in this article. Stay connected with the 434th ARW on Facebook and Twitter.
