GWINN -- In this week in U.P. history, we go back to 1993 and remember the day the decision was made to officially close the KI Sawyer Air Force Base.

On Thursday, June 24, 1993, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission of the Federal Government voted seven to zero to close KI Sawyer.

In the weeks and months leading up to the decision, strong efforts were made by citizens and public officials, such as former Congressman Bart Stupak, to keep the base open.

Right up until the board's announcement, there was hope the base might avoid closure. "We'll be monitoring the situation; we remain guardedly optimistic. I appreciate the bipartisan help and support we've had," said Stupak.  "No matter what happens, let's keep our heads up and continue the fight for KI Sawyer and for Northern Michigan."

The last B-52 airplane left in November of 1994.

The nineteen B-52H's from the 410th Bomb Wing were relocated to Barksdale Air Force Base and Minot Air Force Base and became part of the 2nd and 5th Bomb Wings.

On June 1, 1995, an inactivation ceremony was held. By August of the same year, the base was deactivated.

Sawyer was officially closed on September 30, 1995.