Edwards strengthens ties with local communities

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Julius Delos Reyes
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  In an effort to strengthen the installation's relationship with the local community, the Air Force Flight Test Center has set up Edwards Community Council, providing open dialogue between the base and Antelope Valley. 

Maj. Gen. David Eichhorn, AFFTC commander, is spearheading the council to reach out to leaders of the valley, which include California City, Mojave, Boron, Palmdale, Lancaster and Rosamond. 

"Because Edwards affects multiple communities, it is not always so obvious how we need to work together," said General Eichhorn during a community reception at the AFFTC Museum March 6. "Five percent of the American public is a formidable force if they are organized. Political power comes from organizations speaking with one voice. We are starting up Edwards Community Council so we can share with you what is important to the base." 

As an employer, Edwards provides work to approximately 12,800 people, including 3,500 military members, 3,100 government civilians, 3,200 private contractors and 3,000 tenant organization members. The installation also contributes more than $1.8 billion to the Antelope Valley economy, with job values estimated at more than $640 million and an annual payroll to its workforce amounting to more than $620 million. Contract expenditures, which also extend to various small business organization in the valley, amount to approximately $620 million. 

"We have a huge impact in the Antelope Valley communities and the surrounding areas," said Mike Strickler, 95th Air Base Wing Strategic Communication director. "That is the reason why General Eichhorn decided we needed to talk more and open the lines of communication with the community." 

Through the council, communities can get involved with Edwards. The ECC also aims to provide access, events, current information and a channel of open communication between base leadership and the community. 

"We are looking to have a recurring opportunity to speak with (the communities) to discuss things that are important for Edwards and what is important to them," Mr. Strickler said. 

General Eichhorn said as U.S. citizens, community members have the power to voice what's on their mind. 

"If you speak up, you (are heard)," the general said. "That is where the Edwards community council comes in. We need to see how we can work together."