STRATFORD - Standing with the workforce and management at Sikorsky’s plant today, Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) learned that the Marine One contract was awarded to AgustaWestland. She issued the following statement in response.

“Today is a disappointing day for Connecticut, for our community, and most importantly for Sikorsky and its workers. But this announcement should not detract from the importance of the work that is done by this company - Sikorsky makes the best helicopters in the world.

“From day one, I have said that this competition should be decided on its merits. The President must fly in the safest helicopter around. He must fly in the best-performing helicopter around. And he must fly in a helicopter that we know has been built in the most secure environment possible. On all of those points, I think Sikorsky wins hands-down.

“I also have said that this competition is about making sure that “Made in America” still means something. What kind of statement do we make to the American worker if we outsource Marine One? It is one of the most enduring symbols of our country, now tarnished.

“I am afraid that the government traded away this helicopter in pursuit of other goals. I will introduce legislation to make sure “Made in America” means something. I also intend to keep fighting for Sikorsky and its workers by ensuring we increase the number of Black Hawks built in Stratford, both this year and next.”