The U.S. Army is undergoing a major downsizing effort ranging from a reduction in officer population to divestiture of some formations such as aviation. There is a lot of movement from conventional to special operations forces.
Those topics were some of the message from Lieutenant General ( Ret. ) and Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council, Perry Wiggins, to a Military Affairs Council breakfast audience in Junction City this week. Reduction of 90,000 active duty troops was one disconcerting point that was noted.
Wiggins also touched on the economic impact of Fort Riley. The gross economic impact of the Post on this area received attention. The impact of restructuring on the civlian workforce has already occurred. Changes can happen without a major initiative or announcenent. But Wiggins noted that out of challenges come opportunities and a specific plan is needed."Bottom line we need to develop a strategic plan."
He noted there is a need to focus on what brings a return on investment and how do we apply that to installations in our state.
On the subject of the 1st Infantry Division deployments that are planned in 2026 there will be a huge economic impact. During that time families might not come to the Post so how do we develop a strategic plan to get those for 2026?
Military familes look at schools, hospital and childcare when considering a move to an installation. In USD 475 an early childhood center for 700 to 800 kids is starting to develop and how to communicate it to the people was a question addressed. Wiggins added that overall there are many things we can do to stand together. Telling the new people coming to the region where things are here is essential,
He noted, "We need to all be rowing the same canoe, same direction. " It takes everybody to be successful.
The economic impact of Fort Riley to the state represents about $2 billion annually.