Todd Harmer, Military Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, visited Valdosta Tuesday to meet with the Valdosta- Lowndes Chamber and community leaders concerning Moody Air Force Base.

Harmer detailed his initiative to understand the needs of military bases around South Georgia to ensure Chambliss’s office is taking necessary measures to protect them. The goal is to maximize efficiency and productivity at bases in the area to prevent future BRAC cuts.

Other topics of discussion included veteran jobs bills and healthcare for veterans. There are currently six pieces of legislation aiming to increase veterans’ ability to obtain jobs. Harmer stressed the need to consolidate these bills into a more comprehensive and effective plan and then make sure employers are aware of them.

City Councilman Tim Carroll commended Harmer for taking the time to visit with leaders in the area. “This is the first legislative assistant to come to us, typically we have to travel to D.C. for an opportunity like this,” stated Carroll. Valdosta City Mayor John Gayle and Lowndes County Commissioner Joyce Evans stressed Valdosta’s support of the base and keeping it a top priority. 

The visit is aimed at cultivating relationships with leaders in communities heavily dependent on military installations.