State Sen. Ben Watson (R – Savannah) was recently appointed by Lt. Governor Casey Cagle to serve on the Georgia Joint Defense Commission.

“I am humbled and honored to be chosen to serve on this commission,” said Watson. “I know first-hand the positive impact military installations can have on a district as Hunter Army Airfield, Fort Stewart and the National Guard are integral parts of our community and economy. I am sure that through collaboration and preparation, we will help our state remain the best place for veterans and active duty military members to live, work and raise a family and help ensure our installations are lasting features in Georgia’s landscape.”

The Georgia Joint Defense Commission was created by Senate Bill 395, sponsored by Watson, and is tasked with advising the Governor and the General Assembly on defense and military issues within the state and nationally through an annual report due on Dec. 1. In addition to this, they will make recommendations in regards to military members, both active duty and veterans, design policies that ensure military installations and their communities have a positive, working relationship, and will create a plan in the event of base realignment and closures.

You can read more about the commission and its duties here: http://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/en-US/Display/20172018/SB/395

Watson is Chairman of the Veterans, Military and Homeland Security Committee. He represents the 1st Senate District, which includes portions of Chatham County, all of Bryan County, and most of Liberty County. He may be reached by phone at 404-656-7880 or by email at ben.watson@senate.ga.gov.