Fort Walker leader participates in community military appreciation event

Fredericksburg, Va. – On Feb. 22, Fort Walker Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Bailey addressed business leaders, educators, and high school students at Fredericksburg’s annual “Our Military, Our Community” event facilitated by the Chamber of Commerce.

Joined by Col. Michael Brooks, commander of Marine Base Quantico and Capt. David Wilson, commander of Naval Surface Warfare Base, Dahlgren, the trio presented a yearly snapshot of the status of the installations, economic impacts, and opportunities for business collaborations.

After presentations were complete, the military representatives sat for question-and-answer panel. Queries were raised about needs of military families, with   child-care and housing coming out as top concerns. Students asked about career paths and educational opportunities in the military, and whether an enlisted or officer path was best. Brooks and Bailey explained the various pros and cons and assured the students that, either way, there are significant opportunities for continuing education and professional development on both career tracks, as they both have earned Masters’ degrees while serving.

The event served as an excellent networking opportunity for the installations to meet potential partners for new streamlined services in Intergovernmental Support Agreements (IGSAs), and support for military families.

Of his role in the event, Bailey said, “I’m not used to being the speaker at events like these, but the value of sharing what Fort Walker is, and what our people do for our Nation feels great. Any time we get an opportunity to share about

‘The Best Training and Support – Anywhere!’ we’ll gladly take it!”