South Raleigh News

Today, Governor Roy Cooper visited Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, where he met with base leadership and toured the 333 Fighter Generation Squadron of F-15E Strike Eagles. The Governor was accompanied by North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Secretary Grier Martin, Colonel Morgan Lohse, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Commander, and other base leaders to discuss current operations and potential state partnerships to support military efforts.

“Seymour Johnson and other military installations across North Carolina are doing important work not only protecting our state and our nation but also uplifting critical issues like access to child care and public education,” said Governor Cooper. “North Carolina is proud to be the most military and veteran-friendly state in the country, and we will continue working with our military partners to support service members and their families.”

“North Carolina is committed to supporting the entire family and community,” said Secretary Grier Martin. “Today’s visit is an opportunity to show our support, strengthen our relationship, and find solutions to any challenges our community may be facing. Just as the Air Force motto proclaims, Aim High ... Fly-Fight-Win, this is our pledge to the Airmen and families at Seymour Johnson AFB that call North Carolina home.”

The visit included a mission control briefing on base operations and challenges faced by active-duty service members. Governor Cooper also received a tour of the 333 Fighter Generation Squadron of F-15E Strike Eagles on flightline and had lunch with active-duty service members. During lunch, he discussed issues such as securing high-quality child care and public education.

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base spans 3,300 acres and houses over 4,000 active-duty service members along with 6,000 family members. The 4th Fighter Wing is the host unit at Seymour Johnson AFB.

Governor Cooper has shown consistent commitment to supporting veterans in North Carolina. In February, he hosted a veterans roundtable focused on enhancing state support for veterans. In May, he visited Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune for construction inspections and meetings with military leaders. In August, he attended the North Carolina Commanders’ Council Meeting at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.

The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) ensures that veterans maximize available benefits through its 13 Veteran Services Offices across North Carolina. In 2023 alone, DMVA helped veterans claim over $45 million in compensation.

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