The Coastal Georgia Military Affairs Coalition (CGMAC) announces Leah Poole, president and CEO of the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau, has been named a Defense Community Champion by the Association of Defense Communities.

The Defense Community Champions program was created to recognize individuals who make a difference in their defense communities through deeds big and small. Defense Community Champions are leaders on base, in communities, and across local governments and industry. The program is made possible through ADC’s partnership with Navy Federal Credit Union.

“I am very honored to receive this award. This recognition reflects not only my dedication but the dedication and hard work of everyone who supports our military. CGMAC’s mission is to support our military communities in Coastal, Georgia and it is my pleasure to serve both our local and defense communities,” Poole said.

Incorporated in 1999, as the Friends of Fort Stewart and Liberty County, the organization reorganized as the Coastal Georgia Military Affairs Coalition in 2019. The mission is to enhance the overall economic value of Fort Stewart/ Hunter Army Airfield and the surrounding communities through a progressive regional partnership.