This way the AF can get rid of that hated CAS mission and keep the force/support structure for other areas.
But Kudos the A-10 pilots, they understood it takes the total military to win and willingly supported the ground pounder.
Some years ago, I was on leave in Panama, and found myself at the Howard AFB O Club. I learned that it is not a good idea to engage in some serious drinking with Warthog pilots. Those guys are a breed apart.