Business leaders in Tupelo rally support for Cochran
General Atomics, the San Diego-based defense contractor, has expanded its facility in Lee County eight times since opening in the Tupelo Lee Industrial Park South 10 years ago.
Scott Forney, the company’s senior vice president who also heads its electromagnetic systems division, said that wouldn’t have happened without the work of Mississippi’s congressional delegation, including Sen. Roger Wicker and Rep. Alan Nunnelee, and led by Sen. Thad Cochran.
Business and community leaders gathered Thursday morning at Tupelo City Hall to express their support for Sen. Thad Cochran.
“More than $1 billion has flowed through Tupelo in the last five years because of Cochran’s leadership,” said Forney, alluding to the value of the contracts, salaries and related work done at General Atomics.
Cochran is in a pitched Republican runoff battle with state senator Chris McDaniel, whose seeking to oust the six-term incumbent. The vote is Tuesday, with the winner facing Democrat Travis Childers in November.
This morning on the steps of Tupelo City Hall, business leaders like Forney made their pitch for Cochran, citing his experience and leadership.
General Atomics has developed the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, or EMALS, which is being installed in the new U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier. GA also has developed the arresting gear for the planes, and is also developing a rail gun system. The company’s systems also will be installed in the next carrier, the U.S.S. John F. Kennedy.
General Atomics employs 120 people in lee County and should reach 150 soon. Forney said during the recession, the company endured a difficult period from 2008-2009, but Sen. Cochran, along with other state leaders, helped ensure that the company would continue to operate.
Brian Hawkins, CEO of Hawkeye Industries in Tupelo, is a former president of the Mississippi Manufacturers Association. His defense industry-related work also is tied to the machinations in Washington, and Hawkins said having an experienced leader there is important for thousands of people in Mississippi.
“It’s just a no-brainer,” said Hawkins, who employs 28 people.
“People need to understand that the office of a senator is more than one person. You have an experienced, well-educated and informed staff, led by a senator. … that’s who we need to keep in Washington.”
Daily Journal
6/19/14
Magnolia Tribune
