5.5
Communication / Coordination (COM)
This discussion refers to the programs and plans that promote interagency
coordination. Interagency communication serves the general welfare by
promoting a more comprehensive planning process inclusive of all affected
stakeholders. Interagency coordination also seeks to develop and include
mutually beneficial policies for both communities and the military in local
planning documents, such as comprehensive plans and regional planning
efforts.
ISSUE
COM‐1
Communication with Northeast North Carolina
Counties
Seymour Johnson AFB / Dare County Range community
relations outreach does not extend to northeast North
Carolina counties, cities and towns which affect regional
support for the military. Communities in northeast North
Carolina have limited understanding of the differing
branches of the Armed Forces that impact them and a
lack of knowledge about the Dare County Range location,
use, and association with Seymour Johnson AFB.
Compatibility Assessment
Jurisdictions in the Study Area recognize the importance of
Seymour Johnson AFB and the DCR and its role in national strategic
defense response and enhancing the economy of the surrounding areas.
However, due to the rural character of the Study Area including Dare County,
new residents, visitors, and tourists may not be aware there is an active
military installation in the county. The county’s population grows over 6.5 to
8.5 times as much as the permanent population during the summer months
Background Report
from June to August. Thus, there is a significant population that visits and
influences the area that may not have adequate or accurate information
about the military training that is performed at the DCR, the airspace
surrounding the DCR or the affiliation DCR has with Seymour Johnson AFB.
Outreach events provide an opportunity for the military to educate the
community about the operation and activities taking place at Seymour
Johnson AFB and the DCR. This promotes confidence and trust in Seymour
Johnson AFB and the DCR through sharing information and integrating in the
community that hosts the installations. The most effective public outreach is
ongoing and consistent, which ultimately assists in strengthening and
maintaining a strong public relationship facilitating better communication
and feedback regarding future projects and mission changes.
Seymour Johnson AFB engages with the community through actions both
related to and independent of the military. Seymour Johnson AFB is an
integral part of the local community and has developed programs and
partnerships with local organizations. Seymour Johnson AFB engages in
many public outreach efforts establishing itself as a greater part of the local
and regional community.
Seymour Johnson AFB hosts the Wings Over Wayne Air Show and Open
House, which allows the public to attend a free open house on the Base. The
event provides an opportunity for the public to view aerial demonstrations
along with static displays on the ground. Wings Over Wayne is typically held
every other year. In addition to the airshow, each summer personnel from
Seymour Johnson AFB work with the Base Science and Technology
Academies Reinforcing Basic Aviation and Space Exploration (STARBASE)
program. The five‐day program provides groups of local 5th graders with a
hands‐on experience built around a Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (STEM) curriculum.
Other public outreach involves the Honorary Commander’s Program, which is
hosted by the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce and brings community
leaders together with senior leadership from the Base to create solutions
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