The firefighting unit that serves the 183rd Fighter Wing at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport will stay where it is for at least another year.

Christina Mulka, a spokeswoman for U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., said Tuesday morning that Durbin and U.S. Sen. Barack Obama are still seeking a new flying mission for the unit. In the meantime, however, federal officials have approved keeping the firefighters at the airport until September 2009, she said.

“In that time, we certainly hope to find a new flying mission for the 183rd,” Mulka said.

The fighter jets that have been based at the 183rd are being transferred elsewhere.

The 183rd's firefighters provide protection for more than just the military unit based there, Mulka said. They respond to other emergencies both on airport grounds and nearby as well.

Sherman Fire Chief Rich Coon was pleased to hear that the 183rd would be staying. He said Sherman firefighters call on the squad from time to time for help at medical emergencies, automobile crashes and even building fires.

“The 183rd is a valuable asset to our community. Anybody with volunteer fire department can use all of the mutual aid you can get. The 183rd has been a valuable mutual aid company to us on many occasions,” Coon said.

An announcement on the firefighters' status is expected to be held in Springfield this afternoon. 

Bernard Schoenburg can be reached at bernard.schoenburg@sj-r.com.