Governor McCrory visits Camp Lejeune, unveils veterans initiative

Photo By Cpl. Cameron Payne | Jennifer McNelly addresses military and civilian leaders aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune after North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory announces the launch of the N.C. Military Pipeline Program March 5. The initiative is a public-private collaboration which will enable new veterans and their families to leverage state and private sector resources to more easily integrate into the state workforce and access training that will help advance their new civilian careers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cameron Payne/Released)  

JACKSONVILLE, NC, UNITED STATES

03.12.2015

Story by Cpl. Cameron Payne 

Marine Corps Installations East       

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. - The Marines and sailors of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune welcomed North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory to the installation during his visit to announce the launch of a North Carolina Military Pipeline Program at the Paradise Point Officers’ Club aboard base Thursday.

During the event, Maj. Gen. William D. Beydler, II Marine Expeditionary Force commanding officer, welcomed the governor, who spoke about the important partnership between base and state leaders.

"We appreciate living in a state that supports us the way they do and allows us to train and be ready," said Beydler. "I have a sense that when a Marine or sailor is ready during active duty, they are ready to do things when they leave active duty. We appreciate you looking after the Marines and sailors of Eastern North Carolina."

During the unveiling of his new initiative, McCrory explained the purpose of the program is to help military members transition from the front lines of the battlefield to the front lines of industry.

McCrory said the value that service members add to businesses looking for leaders is unmeasurable.

"We want to fill the skills gap in our country and in our state," said McCrory. "When I am recruiting new businesses they ask ‘Do you have the talent? Do you have mature leaders to fill these jobs?’ and my response is ‘We have the military bases.’"

In his closing statements the governor stressed his wish for North Carolina service members to make the state their new home.

"I want to thank the service men and women gathered here today," said McCrory. "I cannot tell you how much we appreciate the service and sacrifice you and your families have made. We want to be part of your family, we want to be partners and we want you to make North Carolina your home."

• Date Taken: 03.12.2015
• Date Posted: 05.27.2015 10:26
• Story ID: 164631
• Location: JACKSONVILLE, NC, US