JBLM to lose 1,250 soldiers as part of drawdown in U.S. troops

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD -- Washington's largest military base by population will lose 1,250 soldiers as part of a general drawdown of about 40,000 troops nationwide that is expected to take place over the next two years.

The Army also plans to cut an unspecified number of civilian positions from JBLM.

Officials originally thought a cut of 11,000 military and civilian positions was headed to JBLM.

"That would have been a much more dramatic economic impact," said Gary Brackett, with Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber. "We don’t want to see any soldiers go, but as far as the overall impact on the community, it’s a very positive outcome for us."

The drawdown will leave JBLM with about 25,000 active-duty soldiers, down from 34,000 in 2011.

Still, not everyone is excited about the news, including Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash.

She believes a strong and growing JBLM is critical to national security.

"While we all know the cuts could have been deeper, I believe any reductions at JBLM are misguided, especially with the natural strategic advantages of the Puget Sound," said Murray.

Along with the drawdown, the Washington National Guard is expected to receive Stryker vehicles to replace aging tanks.