Montgomery, Alabama – Montgomery has been named one of five communities in the country to win the designation of Great American Defense Community in 2023.
“What made their application rise above the rest was the commitment to education and really how the entire region has embraced and committed to improving education,” said Tom Ford, vice president of the Association of Defense Communities.
The city, which is home to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and the 187th Fighter Wing Air National Guard, was honoured for its commitment to enhancing the lives of military personnel in all areas, including quality of life and education.
“These bonds are key to developing future leaders, effective teams, healthy families and forging these lasting relationships that retain our high-quality airmen and their families,” said Brig. Gen. Clay Freeman, commandant of the Air War College.
Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed stated that obtaining the recognition is significant for the future of Montgomery and the River Region.
“When you have a designation like this, it’s something that sticks with you for a long time,” Reed explained.
This is the first time the capital city has received this honour.
Montgomery’s honour is projected to spread to adjacent communities such as Wetumpka, Pike Road, Prattville, and Millbrook.
“Not only is Montgomery, Alabama’s future bright. “The future is bright in Pike Road, Wetumpka, Millbrook, and Prattville,” said Mayor Jerry Willis of Wetumpka.
The mayors of neighbouring communities believe that working with the military installation in Montgomery is what attracts service members to the River Region, with Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone saying that they have “the privilege to be a part of that narrative” that shapes the future of the next generation.
“At 10,000 feet, we’re all one, and we all work together,” Millbrook Mayor Michael Gay explained.
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