It is with great enthusiasm and pride that we extend a warm welcome to our esteemed 2024 Board of Directors. Having successfully completed their board orientation on December 14th, this dedicated group is poised and ready to embark on a journey of service and leadership in the coming year.

 

As we stand on the threshold of 2024, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact and collaboration that will unfold under the guidance of our Board. With a shared commitment to supporting our military installations and community, we are confident that their collective expertise and passion will contribute to the success of Military One Coast.

 

Together, we look forward to a year of meaningful endeavors, achievements, and strengthened connections. Let us unite our efforts and hit the ground running in January, forging a path that brings about positive change and lasting benefits for those we serve.

 

Welcome, 2024 Board of Directors! Your dedication and leadership are the driving forces behind our shared mission, and we are honored to have you on this transformative journey.

2024 Military One Coast Board of Directors

Nell Schmidt - 2024 Chair - Keesler Federal Credit Union

DeAnn Alewine - Chair-Elect Gulfport Behavioral Health 

Jerry Taranto - Past Chair - The Talking Oyster

Elliott Voivedich - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

April Sanderson - Independent Contractor

Regina Hansen - AlphaCare Urgent Care Gulfport

Mary Cracchiolo-Spain - Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

Marcia Crawford - Harrison County Development Commission

Jovi Prevot Gulfport Chamber Military Affairs Liaison - Naval Construction Battalion Center

Arrea'l Bishop Biloxi Chamber Military Affairs Liaison - City of Biloxi

As we welcome the New Year, let's come together to honor and show our appreciation for those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. The Biloxi National Cemetery is seeking volunteers to assist in the cleanup of wreaths on Saturday, January 6th, starting at 8 am.

Event Details:

• Date and Time: Saturday, January 6th, 8 am
• Meeting Point: The flagpole at Biloxi National Cemetery
• Activity: Group photo followed by assisting in the cleanup of wreaths and flags
• What to Bring: We recommend bringing gloves to protect your hands

Our gathering at the flagpole not only provides an opportunity for a memorable group picture but also symbolizes our unity in paying respects to the brave men and women who have served our country. Your participation, whether as an individual or with your friends and family, will contribute to the dignity and respect our heroes deserve.

 

Rain or Shine ? Our Commitment Stands: This event is dedicated to our heroes, and regardless of the weather, we will proceed with the cleanup. Rain or shine, your presence and support are invaluable.

 

Spread the Word: We encourage you to share this invitation with your friends, family, and within your networks. The more volunteers we have, the more impactful our tribute will be. Let's make this a community effort that truly reflects the gratitude we hold for our servicemen and women.

 

How to Volunteer: If you are interested in being a part of this meaningful event, please reach out to LaWanda at lawanda@mscoastchamber.com. Your dedication will help ensure the respectful removal of wreaths, allowing us to preserve the beauty of the Biloxi National Cemetery.

 

A Small Act, A Big Impact: In lending your time and efforts, you contribute to a gesture of gratitude that echoes throughout our community. Let's stand together to honor and remember those who have given their all.

We are delighted to bring attention to a vital resource that plays a crucial role in supporting our military families during challenging times?the Keesler Air Force Base (AFB) Fisher Houses. These houses serve as a home away from home for family members and designated caregivers when their loved ones are undergoing medical care at a military medical treatment facility or a local community hospital.

 

Background: The Keesler AFB Fisher Houses, Fisher House 1 and Fisher House 2, were established with the vision of providing comfortable and home-like accommodations to the families of active duty, retirees, and veterans during their time of medical need. The criterion for occupancy is clear: guests must be either a family member or designated caregiver of the hospitalized patient or a military-affiliated patient in outpatient status.

 

Fisher House 1: A Legacy of Support (1993) The journey began in 1993 with the opening of Fisher House 1. This two-story house, spanning 5,000 square feet, became a beacon of comfort for families facing the challenges of supporting their loved ones through medical treatments.

 

Fisher House 2: Expanding the Mission (2018) Building upon the success and impact of Fisher House 1, the Keesler AFB community celebrated the opening of Fisher House 2 in 2018. This expansive two-story house, covering 15,000 square feet, marked a significant expansion of the facility's capacity to provide support and comfort to even more military families.

 

Generosity of the Fisher House Foundation: Both Fisher Houses at Keesler AFB were generously donated to the Air Force by the Fisher House Foundation. Named after the late Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, the foundation has made it their mission to provide "a home away from home" for military families during times of medical crisis. The Fisher House Foundation's philanthropy has left an indelible mark on the Keesler AFB community, creating an environment that fosters resilience and unity.

 

Keeping Families Together: The primary goal of the Keesler AFB Fisher Houses is to keep families together during challenging times. Whether a loved one is undergoing treatment at the military medical treatment facility or receiving care at a local community hospital, these houses provide a haven where families can find solace and support. The proximity to medical facilities ensures that families can focus on what matters most?the well-being and recovery of their loved ones.

 

The Keesler AFB Fisher Houses stand as a testament to the power of community support and generosity. These homes away from home provide a haven for our military families, ensuring that they have a supportive environment during times of medical need. As we reflect on the legacy of the Fisher House Foundation and the impact of Fisher Houses 1 and 2, let us continue to rally around our military community, offering our gratitude and support.

 

 

Enlist with Pride: Join Military One Coast Today! Click Here for More Details.