ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Illinois -- Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner addressed members of the Quad Cities media during a press conference at the Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center here, April 8.
"This is my first visit and definitely won't be our last," he said. "This arsenal has huge economic impact. I'm here to listen and learn. I want to be a strong ally for Rock Island Arsenal."
Col. David Luders, commander, RIA-JMTC, and Rick Nesbitt, deputy commander, RIA-JMTC, explained the mission and vision for the factory and pointed out its critical capabilities.
The governor also saw static displays of equipment manufactured at RIA-JMTC, like the M119A2 artillery recoil assembly and the Humvee ambulance.
Following the press event, Maj. Gen. Kevin O'Connell, commanding general, U.S. Army Sustainment Command, accompanied Rauner on a tour of the island.
The visit culminated with a briefing about the commands stationed at Rock Island Arsenal given by senior leaders of ASC, First U.S. Army, Joint Munitions Command, U.S. Army Garrison-Rock Island Arsenal and Army Contracting Command-Rock Island.
Several members of the Quad Cities Chamber also participated in the event. Rauner was in the Quad Cities as a part of his "Illinois Turnaround Tour."
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