KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Keesler has always had a good relationship with the surrounding communities. In order to maintain those relationships, Keesler participates in activities such as the Community Clean-Up Day that was held in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, August 24.
Nearly 100 volunteers from Keesler gathered at Freedom Field and dispersed around the city of Ocean Springs to pick up trash.
“I’m overwhelmed,” said Shea Dobson, Ocean Springs mayor. “I was expecting maybe half of this turnout, seeing everybody come out here is incredible. It’s beautiful to see everybody take ownership of their community.”
Keesler personnel understand the importance in being involved with the surrounding communities.
Tech. Sgt. Alexander Rowley, 335th Training Squadron weather instructor, helped set up the volunteer opportunity with the city because this area means a lot to him.
“I grew up in the Florida panhandle so this is pretty much as close to home that I can get,” said Rowley. “I’ve lived here for three years and I figured why not keep your house clean?”
Rowley also explained that any time the opportunity to help out the local community presents itself, Keesler jumps on it, and the mayor of Ocean Springs is thankful.
“Keesler is amazing,” said Dobson. “They’re a great steward to Ocean Springs and we’re glad to have them on the Gulf Coast.”