Continual operation and expansion of military installations, ranges and their missions is critical to our region’s economic foundation and National security.
The Defense Support Initiatives Committee is a targeted military installation advocacy group sponsored by One Okaloosa EDC. It is a small select group of committed retired or separated military personnel and defense contractors.
To preserve and promote local military installations, ranges and missions, and their positive economic contributions to the tri-county area.
As an issues focused advocacy group, the DSI interfaces at the local, state and Federal levels on topics of local and national interest. As applicable, background information and position papers on specific items are developed and shared with Congressional members, Pentagon leaders, and State of Florida leadership, and their respective staff. Collaborative initiatives are engaged through partnerships with entities such as the Florida Defense Alliance and the Florida Defense Support Commission.
Defense Support Initiatives Committee is recognized by the State of Florida as the official representative and lead agency in the Okaloosa County area for military-community initiatives.
DSI Chair
Jeff Riemer
Maj. General USAF Retired
DSI Manager
Kay Rasmussen
One Okaloosa EDC
Great American Defense Community
Beginning in 2016, the National Association of Defense Communities recognizes communities that go above and beyond to support service members and the military family quality of life through the Great American Defense Community program. One Okaloosa EDC nominated the Eglin-Hurlburt community for consideration as an inaugural designee of this prestigious award. With demonstrated long-standing and unwavering support and innovative initiatives benefiting military personnel and families, the Eglin-Hurlburt Community received the coveted Great American Defense Community designation.