Murkowski springs surprise visit on Orion Elementary, JBER

  • Published
  • By Air Force Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera
  • JBER Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  Sen. Lisa Murkowski talked to the staff and students of Orion Elementary School, answered questions from spouses and hosted a town hall meeting during her visit to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Tuesday.

Upon arrival, Murkowski toured the school with Principal Jon Forbes before surprising the students.

"The last time I came to this school was eight years ago," she said to the kindergarteners. "Who in here is eight years old?" She asked jokingly.

Before answering any questions, Murkowski reminded the students she represents all of them. "You are my boss," added the senator.

During the school assembly, Murkowski answered a few questions from the students, ranging from how congress passes laws to meeting the president. Before she left, the students sang "Alaska's Flag."

Later that afternoon, Murkowski hosted a town hall meeting for enlisted Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Alaska at JBER.

"There is a great deal of uncertainty in the strength of our economy, political future and in our military," Murkowski said.

While addressing pressing issues in Congress, Murkowski wanted to hear about some concerns from the Soldiers and try to alleviate their worries.

"I would hope you would use this meeting as an opportunity not only to educate me but also express some thoughts, and to help me gather some information I can take back to Washington," added Murkowski.

Murkowski answered questions from Soldiers ranging from pay benefits, budget cuts and reduction of force structure, retirement, healthcare, education and housing.

"We asked a great deal of our men and women in uniform. You volunteer, you sign up, put your families through a lot, and you go through a lot," she said.

During the meeting, Murkowski encouraged Soldiers to share their understanding of defense issues.

"With the military, it's the mission that drives the budget and not the budget that drives the mission." she said. "You may or may not consider yourself Alaskans, but I consider you my constituents. I am here to serve you as you are serving our nation. You are in my state and I am responsible."