ACC funds Ellsworth buses for remainder of school year

  • Published
  • By Capt. Carrie Kessler
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Ellsworth leadership received word today that Air Combat Command would provide the $150,000 necessary to continue school bus service for the remainder of the current school year.

"We were faced with a tremendous challenge and through the joint efforts of a number of base organizations and ACC, we were able to obtain the necessary funding," said Col. Jeffry Smith, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "The immediate issue at hand was safety of our children, not a matter of convenience. Our higher headquarters recognized that and was able to provide the support."

The wing commander stressed the funds will only supply busing through the end of this current school year.

"We are very, very thankful to be able to provide school bus service for our children, but I must remind parents this is only a temporary fix," said the colonel. "We're certain there will be no funding available for busing for the next school year."

Wing leadership will continue working with the Douglas School District for alternate options for the coming school year.

"Ellsworth and Douglas have had a fantastic partnership through the years and we will continue working together for a positive solution," said Colonel Smith.