Since 2001, we have served as the lead regional organization focused on the retention of existing military facilities and expansion of facilities through active efforts to seek new missions to relocate to our region. We believe supporting the retention and expansion of the various military and Homeland Security missions in the region is critical to the economic wellbeing of our community and the success of our national defense.

Part of the retention and expansion efforts include recognizing the great work of our military leaders and hosting visits from military leadership. By the end of this year, we will have hosted special events in honor of Medal of Honor winners, highlighted the great work of our Air Force in the Afghanistan airlift, recognized Col. Greene for his outstanding service, welcomed Col. Freeman to his new post as Commander of Joint Base Charleston and hosted a two-day visit from VADM Lindsey to Charleston. We also spearheaded the Abilene Award application, which is awarded annually to the community that is most supportive of its local Air Force Base, to highlight the great work of the community in support of the Air Force mission at Joint Base Charleston.