Ruppersberger Asks DOD to Keep Troops Traveling Through BWI Airport
In September 2003, the Pentagon started giving soldiers stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan two weeks of leave in the largest R & R program since the Vietnam War. Most soldiers on R & R or Emergency Leave travel through BWI Airport.
"BWI Airport has gone above and beyond the call of duty for our men and women in uniform. BWI has the largest USO lounge in world with some of the most dedicated volunteers. I know because I've been there. I've thanked the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines for their service to their country in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world. I've also thanked the energetic USO staff and volunteers who work around the clock to provide our troops with the comforts of home - anything from a clean shower to homemade snacks to a computer to communicate with loved ones," read the letter from Congressman Ruppersberger.
The USO Gateway Lounge hosts more than 250,000 military personnel and their families each year. The military travel program brings more than $50 million to the state of Maryland each year.
BWI Airport's close proximity to Baltimore and Washington makes it ideal for troop transport. It is located near Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Fort Meade, and Walter Reed Army Hospital. BWI also sits on the I-95 corridor which allows families easy access to the airport and the surrounding community.
Congressman Ruppersberger created "Operation Hero Miles," the innovative program that allows travelers to donate their unused frequent flyer miles. Military personnel can use them to fly home for free and family members of wounded troops can use them to travel to military hospitals to visit their injured loved ones.
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