Sad Ending for Plant

What a wonderful undertaking by Lockheed in South Central Los Angeles when it built its modest plant there nearly 20 years ago. (“On a Wing and a Prayer: C-5 Work Near End, Lockheed Ponders Fate of Watts Plant,” March 14).

And how sad that the termination of a single contract seems to spell the termination of the entire project. Unfortunately, this is not a singular event; it can and does take place in many locations throughout the country--despite the best efforts of some in Congress who have been consistently trying to pass legislation to alleviate such problems through job retraining and better planning.

I am confident that Lockheed will do its best to keep the plant and work force viable. But what a shame that the planning should begin only at the time of the crisis!

JAMES SCHERR

Studio City