McMahon: Cuts Are Going to Be Challenging for RAFB

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Retired Major General Robert McMahon, says the military spending cuts expected March 1st, also known as the sequester, are going to be challenging for Robins Air Force Base.

The Department of Defense is issuing 22 furlough days for a big chunk of civilian workers across the air force. McMahon says that will put more pressure on military men and women to get the mission done.

He anticipates these furlough days will likely begin in April, and continue through September. He also says when they cut back on maintenance jobs, it will take RAFB years to dig out of that hole.

“What I do know about the commanders put there because they are commanders and they care about their civilian workforce they’re worried. They’re worried about the longevity of the base. They’re worried about their ability to accomplish the mission. They’re worried about their workforce because clearly this creates stress and it doesn’t matter if they’re military or civilian, they’re worried about their workforce,” says McMahon.

McMahon serves as the CEO and President of the 21st Century Partnership. He says he’s been in touch with leaders in Washington, who tell him the cuts will come down on March 1st.