Military Affaire event builds local partnerships

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Matt Davis
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee and Team Dover leadership hosted the Military Affaire at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Jan. 9, 2018. The event provided an avenue for CDCC members, local civic leaders and Team Dover members to network and discuss community partnership initiatives. The committee, comprised of CDCC members, helps communicate the impact that Dover AFB has on the state and local economies.

According to the CDCC website, the purpose of the committee is to provide a mechanism for communicating the needs of DAFB to the chamber members so that community support can be provided to the installation and its personnel. There are 49 CDCC members who serve on the committee, which holds meetings throughout the year to help engage the base with the community.

“The Military Affairs Committee is a group of chamber members who have chosen to more closely support the efforts of the base. This event is their way of thanking our military leadership for all they do during the year,” said Dawne Nickerson-Banez, 436th Airlift Wing chief of community engagement. “Additionally, it helps to reinforce the partnerships that the base has with the local community. It is a chance for members of the chamber, who are our small business owners, to see first-hand the people that are carrying out the mission daily. It is an opportunity to ask questions, and understand more about what we do at Dover AFB.”

The committee’s goal is to host at least three events throughout the year for CDCC members and military personnel to maintain and strengthen relationships. These type of events are a critical tool for base and community leaders to better support both sides of the mission.

“By sharing stories and information, it makes our community more educated on the needs and requirements of our Airmen,” said Nickerson-Banez. “It puts a personal touch on the daily business of the mission. It allows our community partners to go out in their circles and advocate for the Airmen, the base and the Air Force.”
Airmen and personnel from DAFB continue to build upon the relationship with the local community.

“Life-long friendships are formed by these partnerships. Airmen are supported on many levels from being hosted for the holidays to support during an unforeseen emergency,” said Nickerson-Banez. “The relationships that are forged between our Airmen and the community create fond memories, strong business relationships and friendships that transcend any permanent change of station.”