Photo courtesy of U.S. Department of Navy
Honor, Courage, Commitment:
OUR MILITARY The First Coast’s military presence provides a community full of stability and diversity. As the third largest military presence in the country, the area is home to more than 50,000 active-duty and civilian contractors stationed at the area’s three naval bases: Naval Station Mayport, Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. The First Coast is also home to Marine Corps Blount Island Command, Camp Blanding Army Base and the United States Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville. The local economic impact of the Navy generates more than $10 billion annually. The job force is very open to veterans with many businesses being veteran owned as well as veteran employed. Annual events are held throughout the year to honor those who have served or serve such as the job fairs for veterans and the largest Veterans Day Parade in the state of Florida.