YOKOTA AIR BASE, JAPAN — Budget problems aren't likely to disrupt the paychecks of Air Force personnel in fitness and recreational facilities, even if funding earmarked for the military isn't restored through passage of a supplemental bill, according to Gen. Paul Hester, Pacific Air Forces commander. Instead, the Air Force would look at other options, including scaling back quality-of-life programs, service contracts and routine maintenance tasks. Many bases already have been forced to cut corners. Some fitness centers stopped providing workout towels, for example.

Hester remains hopeful the diverted money will be brought back and further cutbacks elsewhere will be unnecessary, but Congress and the White House must first resolve supplemental issues.

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