Colonel Anthony Smith told the more than 100 civic and business leaders he welcomed to the first-ever Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst “State of the Base” day on Oct. 4, the value of its existence.

“From supporting global mission to driving local economic growth, this base is far more than just a military installation, it is a critical pillar in your community,” he said.

Smith, the JBMDL installation commander and commander of the 87th Air Base Wing, invited the guests to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Joint Base and reflect on what truly makes JBMDL extraordinary.

“The people — our dedicated service members, their families, our civilian workforce and the civic partners who help make it all possible,” he said.

The civic and business leaders were briefed on the base’s mission and current operations, its role in local and global communities, and the significant milestones it achieved during Fiscal Year 2024. They also had the opportunity to view aircraft and ground vehicle static displays.

Smith was joined during the day by Colonel Bryan Dunker, commanding officer of Fort Dix and Navy Captain James Howell, commanding officer of the Lakehurst Naval Station. Both men are deputy commanders of the Joint Base. Other senior leaders, non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel also discussed their roles and responsibilities.

The day was capped off by a tour of the base, which included visits to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Atlantic Strike Team, the New Jersey National Guard’s Battle Simulations Group and a 305th Air Mobility Wing KC-46A Pegasus aircraft static display.

Among the day’s distinguished visitors was retired New Jersey Congressman Jim Saxton who played a pivotal role in establishing the Joint Base during a Base Realignment and Closure initiative.

“It was an honor sharing how Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst’s Fire Department actively supports our national defense strategies,” said Airman 1st Class Jonathan Bryant, 87th Civil Engineer Group firefighter who participated in the briefing of the base’s capabilities. “Their dedicated service safeguards our installation and plays a vital role in advancing the strategies of integrating joint forces and combined efforts while strengthening relationships with allies and partners.”

The Joint Base partnered with the Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce to host the event.

“Today’s event allowed business and civic leaders who had never set foot on JBMDL, to experience it firsthand and connect with the men and women who make the mission happen,” said Kristi Howell, BCRCC President. “It’s important that we all understand the economic impact JBMDL has on our community, as well as how we can support the service members assigned here.

“It is also important for all of us to understand that military leadership needs the support of the community to attract missions and support service members.”