Submitted photoCapt. Scott A. Bunnay

The Meridian Star invited some community leaders to identify their priorities for 2017. The following is from Capt. Scott A. Bunnay, commanding officer NAS Meridian.

Naval Air Station Meridian enables and sustains warfighter readiness from the shore by facilitating the training of Sailors and Marines to fight from the sea. While sustaining our enduring mission, I find it valuable to establish annual objectives to focus our work.

As part of the vibrant East Central Mississippi community, we rely on our neighbors to maintain our outstanding record of success involving operations in Lauderdale, Kemper and Noxubee counties. As we are in a time of fiscal constraint, it is even more critical to make the best use of all available resources to sustain the fleet, enable warfighters, and support our families. NAS Meridian’s 2017 objectives inform our personnel what is most important today.

First, we must ensure the morale and well-being of our workforce. Providing comprehensive security and safety services that protect people, public and private property, and the environment from harm is an enduring objective. We must also cultivate a vibrant command climate, which is secure, respectful, and free from harassment and drugs, where Sailors and civilians are mentored and developed to enable personal and professional growth.

Second, we need to strengthen community relationships. Inclusive events and continuing progress on the Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) and Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program, which assists the local community in promoting compatible civilian development and minimizing land-use conflicts near military installations, and maximize our mission effectiveness. Committed to energy security, economic growth, and environmental safeguards, we will reduce energy usage 2.5 percent and support the construction of a 6MW photovoltaic array on installation property.

Third, we will continue our mission. NAS Meridian is here to train naval aviators and enlisted Sailors and Marines who support administrative and aviation related fields. The installation must provide unwavering support to tenant commands, including Training Air Wing One, Naval Technical Training Center, Marine Aviation Training Support Squadron One, Naval Operations Support Center, and the Regional Counterdrug Training Academy, to realize their individual goals.

These 2017 objectives will continue progression toward our vision to foster a thriving workforce who innovate and adapt to maintain our military edge and readiness while being brilliant on the basics; making smart business decisions; practicing operational excellence and living a culture of continuous improvement.