One of the most anticipated speakers each year for the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce is the Commanding Officer of NAS Whidbey Island. As an advocate for the business community, the Chamber of Commerce featured Capt. Gerral David May 20 at their monthly luncheon program May 20 to the Chief Petty Officers’ Club.

A crowd of 140 came to hear David give his last State of the Station before his change of command later this summer. Praising the unique, supportive relationship between the city, chamber and base, David spoke on the future growth in population and construction, aircraft transitions, environmental stewardship and economic impact. 

In recounting the recent news that NAS Whidbey Island was named second top naval installation of 77 and number one air station in the country, David said, “We’re not that number one naval air station just because of those people inside that fence line. We are that number one naval air station because we all are part of Team Whidbey; and you make us that number one air station…we are grateful for your part in that.”

In a half-hour talk, David covered information of interest from the air station’s role in the quadrennial defense review to local importance of the Navy in this community.

The audience learned that the base population of 7,600 active duty and 2,400 civilians and contracts hadn’t changed much since last year, but the economic impact increased several million dollars primarily in construction due to the EA-18G Growler transition. Of interest to the audience was that $70 million in housing allowance for military rents and mortgages supports the local economy.

The business leaders learned of new projects coming this year including the Navy Exchange expansion, Cliffside RV Park addition of another 40 camp sites to its current 20 and construction of a new Childcare Center. 

Proud of the station’s environmental stewardship record, David talked about new Puget Sound Energy initiatives under way to reduce the base $6 million annual electricity bill. .

David said the saltwater habitat restoration project that was completed last year after almost a 10-year environmental partnership with Oak Harbor, Island County, Washington State, local Indian Tribes and the U.S. Navy is bearing fruit as salmonids have been spotted in the restored marsh.

Before closing, David called us a surprised Jill Johnson, Executive Director of the Oak Harbor Chamber, and presented her with a special plaque naming her a true “Friend of the Navy.”

“For extraordinary support of the Navy, Sailors and their families in the Pacific Northwest, Ms. Johnson was instrumental in leading key events that directly benefited Naval Air Station Whidbey Island personnel, including the annual Military Appreciation Picnic, parades and 4th of July fireworks,” said David.

David named his replacement Capt. Jay Johnston as incoming commanding officer, asking the community’s support to embrace him and his family when they arrive this summer.

“It’s been my honor and privilege to serve here,” said David to a standing ovation and round of applause. “It’s been very, very special and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”