To protect the important flight missions of area military bases and protect them from encroachment from new development, the City of Biloxi recently updated its Land Development Ordinance to reflect new height restrictions around Keesler Air Force Base. The City of Gulfport also has similar zoning restrictions in place around the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport to protect the Air National Guard’s training missions.

Local and regional chambers in Biloxi and Gulfport have strong Military Affairs Committees who plan social and business networking activities for stationed military personnel and commanding officers. They regularly host homecoming events for returning personnel; welcome and farewell receptions for senior officers; and events for military families on special holidays like Mardi Gras and Christmas on the Water. In addition, military personnel serve as liaisons to each Chamber Board of Directors and regularly give reports on base activities.

For 25 years, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce has hosted an evening gala to honor the men and women of the armed services. Proclamations are issued by the Governor, U.S. Congressional delegation, local mayors, and business groups. Notable speakers have included the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Chief of Naval Operations, and other senior level military personnel.

Commanding officers of the area military installations are invited to participate in monthly meetings of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Economic Development Council. This group is by invitation only and is made up of the Presidents and CEOs of major Gulf Coast companies. During these meetings, military personnel are able to report on projects occurring on their installations and enlist senior level support as necessary.

Gulf Coast retailers and restaurants typically offer a minimum of a 10% discount to military personnel on all purchases and host “Military Appreciation Days” throughout the year with additional discounts.

Senior military personnel and public affairs officers are regularly invited to speak to civic and business groups including area Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis Clubs, along with business networking groups like the Biloxi and Gulfport Business Club.