Michaud a proven advocate for Aroostook

To the editor:
    When I think of Mike Michaud, I immediately reflect back to late summer 2005 when I, as nearly all of us in Aroostook County did, waited on pins and needles for the Base Realignment and Closure Commission’s decision on the DFAS Center at Loring. Congressman Michaud was there the day of the announcement, but it was his hard work and effort working with the Department of Defense officials and others in the months, weeks, and days before the announcement that made the real difference.
    Without Mike’s work behind the scenes and the critical role he and others had in this uphill battle, the outcome of the announcement on that late summer day in August 2005 might have been entirely different. Instead, the BRAC announced that it would not only be keeping the DFAS Center open, but would be adding jobs to the facility and to the Aroostook economy.
    Congressman Michaud’s work and advocacy for DFAS is just one example of his commitment, determination and dedication to always work on behalf of Maine. In the five years since the BRAC decision, Mike’s accomplishments in Congress include his sponsorship and successful passage of legislation to create the Northern Border Regional Commission, which would direct $30 million every year to high priority projects like transportation, energy and telecommunications infrastructure in our region.
    Congressman Michaud has been there for us since he was first elected to Congress in 2002, and, on Nov. 2, I urge you to show your appreciation by re-electing him to go back to Washington and continue to fight for Maine and our future.
Kenneth L. Hensler
Fort Fairfield