The Future of El Toro Marine Air Station

The recent Department of Defense decision to close the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station has brought with it numerous propositions to make up for the economic void left in its wake. The editorials have been filled with grand plans for malls, offices, factories and even a rapid transit system. Unfortunately, they have been a platform from which to display public ignorance of the military, as well. However, two letters to the editor (March 21) arguing in favor of the base closure caused me to reconsider.

James C. Delaney proposed promptly closing MCAS El Toro and utilizing the land for an airline shipping hub, thus ridding Orange County of the numerous military vehicles, cars, trucks and aircraft not subject to California’s emission control standards. This would “improve air quality, reduce noise” and provide a “safer living environment.” I agree.

It is common knowledge that the air station rivals L.A. in smog production.

Jeff and Elizabeth Crampton’s (letter) stated it is “pointless to keep El Toro open just to offer jobs. Surely our local economy would be far better off with this land in private hands.” That’s right. Why keep El Toro open to offer jobs when we can close it and provide different jobs?

Furthermore, it is obvious that Orange County is vastly behind the nation’s malls-per-capita average. I propose building the “Mother of all Malls” complete with its own airport. Let’s not forget that Marine Corps Air Station Tustin is also slated for closure. Perhaps we could build two malls linked by a monorail.

However, the Cramptons’ last point certainly provided the most logical argument yet: “When enemy troops wade ashore in Newport Beach, then we’ll believe El Toro serves a strategic need.” Bravo! Since El Toro and Tustin serve only to train our young men and women for battle, why not eliminate the middleman?

I propose sending our pilots fresh out of the training commands directly to the Baltics on aircraft carriers. They could get valuable on-the-job training. Not only would we be supporting the U.N., but we wouldn’t have to be bothered by loud machines streaking overhead and rattling our fine china.

I believe we will initiate a trend. Soon other states will realize that they are not threatened by foreign invasion and will opt to send their young servicemen and women to other reaches of the globe. That way the military can still promote their interests without having to operate, heaven forbid, in their own back yard.

CARL L. OROS

1st Lt., USMC

Irvine