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Congress funds only 317,050 airmen

Defense Secretary Robert Gates’ pleas for more airmen did not go unheard by the money-keepers in Congress.

They just decided not to pick up the tab.

Wednesday’s joint congressional report on 2009 fiscal year authorizations, or the explanation of what Congress is willing to pay for, did not authorize funds for more than 317,050 airmen. That number is far less than the 328,000 Gates said he wanted in blue suits and ABUs by the end of 2009.

“The Secretary of Defense has stated that he will support the Air Force’s request to maintain its active-duty end strength well above the 316,000 level previously approved in connection with its recapitalization planning,” read the congressional report.

“We do not oppose the Air Force’s efforts to maintain a higher end strength, and expect the Department and the Air Force to work with the Congress in finding appropriate funding sources in 2009.”