Governor Tate Reeves has announced the creation of Mission 3, a new public-private nonprofit organization focused on supporting defense installations and uniting communities in South Mississippi. The group aims to strengthen military bases, increase economic opportunities, and bring together local stakeholders under three main priorities: Military, Defense, and Community.
“Mississippi’s military and defense communities are worthy of appreciation, support and investment,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “Through Mission 3, Mississippi will add another valuable tool in its toolbox to better support those who have sacrificed so much for us. I’m excited to see the positive benefits that will come from Mission 3.”
The Mississippi Gulf Coast hosts several important military sites including Keesler Air Force Base, Camp Shelby, Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, Stennis Space Center, and key U.S. Coast Guard operations. These facilities provide thousands of jobs locally and play an essential role in national security.
According to Jamie Miller, President and CEO of the Gulf Coast Business Council: “Mission 3 is our region’s answer to a changing defense economy. It’s how we protect what we’ve built, grow what we’ve earned, and do right by the service members and families who serve us all.”
Mission 3 intends to foster collaboration among community leaders, industry partners, and local governments. Retired United States Air Force Colonel Paul Drake has been appointed as the first executive director of Mission 3. Colonel Drake brings experience as a graduate of both the U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Army War College; he has served in Iraq as well as holding senior positions with the National Guard Association of the U.S., and currently teaches at the U.S. Army War College.
“I’m grateful to Governor Reeves and our regional leaders for their vision,” said Colonel Paul Drake. “Mission 3 will bring military leaders, businesses, and local officials together to speak with one unified voice – because no single organization can protect, enhance, and expand our region’s defense economy alone.”
The launch comes after a yearlong effort by the Gulf Coast Business Council Masters Class which examined effective military support structures in other states before recommending this new approach for South Mississippi.
A grant from the Mississippi Development Authority’s Defense Community Support Program enabled Mission 3’s establishment. The Gulf Coast Business Council worked closely with the Governor’s Office of Military Affairs on this initiative; both organizations plan ongoing coordination for long-term investment in regional defense efforts.
