The cinema located on Naval Air Station Pensacola provides entertainment and a sense of community for military personnel, their families, and civilian employees stationed there. It offers a convenient and affordable movie-going experience within the base’s secure perimeter.
On-base entertainment options like this contribute significantly to the morale and overall quality of life for those serving in the military. Providing a familiar and relaxing activity within a readily accessible location can be particularly important for individuals stationed far from home or dealing with the stresses of military life. Historically, military bases have incorporated recreational facilities, including theaters, recognizing their positive impact on personnel. This tradition continues to offer valuable support and a sense of normalcy within the structured environment of a military installation.
Further exploration of recreational opportunities on military bases, the historical development of on-base entertainment, and the broader significance of morale-boosting programs within the military community can provide a richer understanding of their role and impact.
1. On-base entertainment
On-base entertainment plays a crucial role in maintaining morale and fostering a sense of community within military installations like Naval Air Station Pensacola. The availability of recreational activities on base provides personnel with convenient and affordable options for leisure and relaxation, contributing to their overall well-being. The cinema at Pensacola NAS serves as a prime example of such a facility, offering a readily accessible venue for movie-going within the base’s secure perimeter.
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Stress Relief and Relaxation
Military life can be demanding, and access to recreational activities offers opportunities for stress relief and relaxation. The cinema allows personnel to unwind, escape momentarily from daily pressures, and engage in a familiar and enjoyable activity. This contributes to improved mental and emotional well-being.
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Community Building
Shared experiences, like attending a movie, foster a sense of community among base personnel. The cinema provides a common ground for individuals to connect, interact, and build relationships outside of work or duty. This strengthens unit cohesion and creates a more supportive environment.
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Family-Friendly Activities
The cinema at Pensacola NAS caters to families, offering a suitable environment for parents and children to enjoy movies together. This provides a valuable resource for families stationed on base, particularly those new to the area or far from extended family support networks.
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Accessibility and Affordability
Located within the base, the cinema offers convenient access and typically features more affordable ticket prices than off-base theaters. This accessibility factor is particularly important for junior enlisted personnel and families managing tight budgets.
The cinema, as a key component of on-base entertainment at Pensacola NAS, contributes significantly to the quality of life for military personnel and their families. By offering a readily available, affordable, and family-friendly activity, it supports the overall mission of maintaining a strong and resilient military community.
2. Military Community Focus
The cinema at Pensacola NAS demonstrates a clear military community focus. This focus is not merely incidental but a core aspect of its operation, designed to address the specific needs and circumstances of military personnel and their families. This targeted approach recognizes the unique challenges and demands of military life, such as frequent deployments, relocation, and the associated stresses on families. The theater contributes to a supportive environment by providing a familiar and accessible form of entertainment within the base’s secure perimeter. This fosters a sense of belonging and normalcy, especially valuable for those new to the base or far from home.
This commitment to the military community manifests in several practical ways. Ticket prices are typically lower than commercial theaters, acknowledging the financial realities faced by many military families. The programming often includes family-friendly films and may offer special screenings or events tailored to specific military holidays or observances. The location on base eliminates the need to travel off-base for entertainment, a significant benefit considering security protocols and the potential inconvenience for those without personal transportation. The theater becomes more than just a place to watch movies; it functions as a community hub, fostering camaraderie and connection within the military environment. For example, the theater might host special screenings for deploying units or welcome-home events, reinforcing its role as a central gathering place.
Understanding the central role of military community focus in the operation of the Pensacola NAS cinema highlights its significance within the broader context of military morale and welfare programs. It serves as a tangible example of the support structures designed to enhance the quality of life for service members and their families. Recognizing this connection underscores the importance of such facilities in maintaining a strong and resilient military community, ultimately contributing to mission readiness and effectiveness. This approach also recognizes the value of providing familiar and comfortable environments that can ease the transitions and challenges inherent in military life.
3. Affordable Movie Tickets
Affordability at the Pensacola NAS cinema plays a crucial role in its value proposition to the military community. Offering lower ticket prices than off-base commercial theaters makes movie-going accessible to a wider range of personnel, including junior enlisted members and families managing tight budgets. This affordability factor directly contributes to the theater’s ability to support morale and enhance the quality of life for those stationed at NAS Pensacola.
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Financial Accessibility
Lower ticket prices reduce the financial barrier to entertainment, ensuring that movie-going remains an option for all personnel regardless of rank or financial situation. This inclusivity fosters a sense of community and shared experience.
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Family Entertainment on a Budget
For families stationed at NAS Pensacola, affordable movie tickets facilitate valuable family time without straining the budget. This is particularly important for families with multiple children or those facing deployment-related financial challenges.
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Enhanced Morale and Recreation
By providing affordable entertainment options, the cinema contributes to improved morale and offers a readily accessible form of recreation within the base’s secure perimeter. This contributes positively to overall well-being and unit cohesion.
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Alternative to Off-Base Expenses
Affordable on-base movie tickets offer a cost-effective alternative to seeking entertainment off base, which can involve additional expenses like transportation, parking, and potentially higher ticket prices.
The affordability of the Pensacola NAS cinema reinforces its significance as a resource designed to support the military community. By ensuring accessibility and offering a cost-effective entertainment option, the theater directly contributes to the overall quality of life and morale of personnel stationed at NAS Pensacola. This focus on affordability underscores the commitment to providing accessible recreational opportunities for all members of the military community.
4. Convenient Location
The convenient location of the cinema within Naval Air Station Pensacola significantly enhances its value and accessibility for base personnel. Situated on the base itself, the theater eliminates the need to leave the installation for movie entertainment, a factor with considerable practical implications for those living and working within the secured perimeter. This convenience translates to reduced travel time, eliminating the need to navigate traffic or secure off-base transportation, and mitigates security procedures associated with exiting and re-entering the base. For personnel living in base housing, the proximity of the cinema offers walkable access, further enhancing its convenience, particularly for families with young children. This ease of access encourages more frequent utilization of the theater, fostering a stronger sense of community and providing a readily available leisure activity.
The on-base location also contributes to a sense of safety and security. Personnel can enjoy movies without the concerns associated with venturing off-base, particularly in unfamiliar areas. This is especially relevant for those new to the area or for families attending evening showings. Furthermore, the cinema’s location within the base’s infrastructure often places it in proximity to other amenities, such as dining facilities or recreational areas, creating a centralized hub for leisure and entertainment. For instance, families might combine dinner at a nearby on-base restaurant with a movie, maximizing convenience and minimizing logistical challenges. This clustering of services streamlines recreational activities, contributing to a more efficient and enjoyable experience.
In summary, the convenient location of the Pensacola NAS cinema is integral to its function as a valuable resource for the base community. By minimizing travel time and logistical hurdles, the theater promotes accessibility and encourages greater utilization. Its location within the secure base perimeter enhances safety and contributes to a sense of community. Understanding this connection underscores the importance of strategic placement of recreational facilities on military installations to maximize their benefit and positive impact on personnel and their families. This strategic placement directly supports morale, fosters community, and contributes to the overall quality of life for those serving at NAS Pensacola.
5. Current Film Showings
Access to current film showings is a critical aspect of the Pensacola NAS movie theater’s function as an entertainment venue. The theater’s ability to offer a selection of recently released movies directly impacts its relevance and appeal to the base community. Staying current with film releases ensures the theater remains a viable and engaging entertainment option, contributing to its role in boosting morale and providing a sense of normalcy for personnel stationed at NAS Pensacola. Examining the various aspects of current film showings reveals how they contribute to the theater’s overall success and its value to the military community.
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Variety of Genres
Offering a diverse range of film genres, from action and adventure to comedy and drama, caters to the varied preferences of the base population. This variety ensures there’s something for everyone, maximizing the theater’s appeal to a broader audience. Showing a mix of blockbusters, independent films, and family-friendly options allows the theater to serve diverse demographics within the military community, from single service members to families with children.
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Up-to-Date Releases
Screening recently released films is essential for maintaining the theater’s relevance and attracting audiences. The ability to see movies shortly after their public release provides a sense of connection to popular culture and reduces the likelihood of spoilers. This timely access to new releases enhances the theater’s value proposition compared to waiting for movies to become available on streaming services or other home viewing formats.
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Showtimes and Scheduling
Offering a variety of showtimes throughout the day and week accommodates the varied schedules of military personnel. Multiple showtimes allow individuals to fit movie-going into their often demanding and unpredictable work routines. Staggered showtimes also facilitate larger groups attending together, such as squadron gatherings or family outings. The scheduling strategy directly impacts the theater’s accessibility and its ability to cater to the specific needs of the military community.
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Special Screenings and Events
Hosting special screenings, such as advance previews or themed movie nights, can generate excitement and further engage the base community. These events might be tied to holidays, military observances, or specific film releases, creating unique experiences and fostering a sense of community. Special screenings also provide opportunities for the theater to partner with other base organizations, further integrating it into the fabric of NAS Pensacola.
The consistent provision of current film showings, encompassing a variety of genres, up-to-date releases, flexible scheduling, and special events, directly contributes to the Pensacola NAS movie theater’s success in serving the military community. By understanding the multifaceted nature of keeping film offerings current, one can appreciate the theater’s role not only as an entertainment venue but also as a vital resource for morale, community building, and overall quality of life for those stationed at NAS Pensacola.
6. Concessions Available
The availability of concessions at the Pensacola NAS movie theater forms an integral part of the overall movie-going experience. More than a simple amenity, the concessions stand contributes to the theater’s financial viability and enhances its appeal as a recreational destination within the base. Offering a selection of familiar movie snacks and drinks creates a sense of normalcy and contributes to a complete cinematic experience for personnel and their families stationed at NAS Pensacola. An examination of the various facets of concessions reveals their integrated role within the theater’s operation and their impact on the base community.
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Revenue Generation
Concession sales generate crucial revenue that supports the theater’s operational costs, including film licensing fees, equipment maintenance, and staffing. This revenue stream allows the theater to offer more affordable ticket prices, making movie-going accessible to a broader segment of the military community. The profitability of concessions directly impacts the theater’s ability to sustain its operations and continue providing entertainment services.
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Enhanced Movie-Going Experience
The availability of traditional movie snacks like popcorn, candy, and soft drinks enhances the overall movie-going experience. These familiar treats contribute to a sense of occasion and create a more immersive and enjoyable cinematic experience, aligning with the expectations associated with a typical movie outing. The aroma of popcorn and the readily available refreshments contribute to the atmosphere and enhance the sense of escapism that movie-going provides.
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Convenience and Accessibility
On-base concessions offer convenient access to refreshments without the need to leave the theater or the base. This is particularly beneficial for families with children or for personnel attending movies after work or during off-duty hours. The readily available concessions streamline the movie-going experience and minimize logistical challenges associated with obtaining refreshments elsewhere. This convenience factor is especially appreciated within the self-contained environment of a military base.
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Community Hub and Social Interaction
The concessions area often serves as a social hub within the theater, providing a space for brief interactions and a sense of shared experience. Waiting in line for concessions or enjoying snacks in the lobby facilitates casual conversations and fosters a sense of community among moviegoers. This social aspect, though often overlooked, contributes to the theater’s role as a gathering place within the base community.
The availability of concessions at the Pensacola NAS movie theater extends beyond mere convenience. It plays a vital role in the theater’s financial sustainability, enhances the movie-going experience, and contributes to the sense of community within the base. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of concessions operations underscores their importance within the larger context of providing recreational services and supporting the morale and well-being of military personnel and their families stationed at NAS Pensacola. The seemingly simple act of purchasing popcorn or a drink becomes a small but significant part of the theater’s overall contribution to the base community.
7. Enhanced Morale
The cinema at Pensacola NAS plays a significant role in enhancing morale among base personnel. Access to affordable and convenient entertainment provides a valuable outlet for stress relief and relaxation, crucial factors in maintaining a positive and productive work environment within the demanding context of military life. The opportunity to disconnect from daily pressures and engage in a familiar, enjoyable activity contributes to improved mental and emotional well-being. This, in turn, can lead to increased job satisfaction, improved focus, and greater resilience in the face of challenges. For example, personnel returning from deployments or extended training exercises can utilize the cinema as a means of reintegrating into a more relaxed setting, facilitating a smoother transition back to routine. The shared experience of movie-going also fosters camaraderie and strengthens unit cohesion, further contributing to a positive command climate.
The impact of enhanced morale extends beyond individual well-being. A positive and supportive environment fosters greater productivity, improves communication within teams, and strengthens overall unit effectiveness. When personnel feel valued and supported, they are more likely to invest in their work and contribute to a positive and productive work environment. The cinema, as a readily available recreational resource, contributes to this positive feedback loop by providing an easily accessible avenue for stress relief and social interaction. Moreover, the availability of family-friendly entertainment options strengthens family bonds and supports the overall well-being of military families, a critical factor in maintaining a strong and resilient military community. The cinema becomes more than just a place to watch movies; it represents a tangible investment in the well-being of the base community.
In conclusion, the connection between the Pensacola NAS cinema and enhanced morale is a significant one. By providing readily accessible and affordable entertainment, the theater contributes directly to stress reduction, improved well-being, and stronger community bonds. Recognizing this connection underscores the importance of recreational resources within the military environment and their direct contribution to maintaining a strong and resilient force. While other factors contribute to morale, the cinema provides a consistent and accessible outlet that demonstrably supports the overall well-being of personnel stationed at NAS Pensacola. This, in turn, contributes to mission readiness and the overall effectiveness of the military community.
8. Family-friendly environment
The family-friendly environment cultivated by the cinema at Pensacola NAS represents a crucial aspect of its service to the base community. Military families face unique challenges, including frequent relocations, deployments, and the inherent stresses of military life. The cinema provides a consistent and supportive environment where families can relax, enjoy time together, and experience a sense of normalcy. This supportive atmosphere is intentionally fostered through various strategies, including programming choices, facility design, and operational policies. For instance, the theater typically offers a selection of family-friendly films, ensuring age-appropriate viewing options for children of different ages. The facility itself may incorporate features like booster seats or designated family seating areas to enhance comfort and convenience for families with young children. Operational policies might include discounted ticket prices for children or special family packages for concessions, further reinforcing the theater’s commitment to serving families. Real-world examples demonstrate the impact of this commitment. A family newly arrived at NAS Pensacola, navigating the challenges of relocation and settling into a new community, might find solace and a sense of connection in a familiar movie-going experience. Similarly, families facing an impending deployment can utilize the cinema as a venue for creating positive memories and strengthening bonds before a separation. The practical significance of this family-friendly approach lies in its contribution to overall family well-being and, by extension, to the resilience and readiness of the military community as a whole.
Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for families requires ongoing attention to detail and a proactive approach to addressing family-specific needs. This might involve actively seeking feedback from families on programming preferences, ensuring the facility remains clean and well-maintained, and training staff to be responsive to family needs. For example, offering designated stroller parking areas or providing changing tables in restrooms demonstrates a thoughtful consideration of the practicalities of attending the theater with young children. These seemingly small details contribute significantly to a positive and welcoming experience for families. Furthermore, collaborating with other family-support organizations on base can amplify the cinema’s impact. Jointly sponsored events, such as family movie nights or special screenings for children with special needs, further integrate the theater into the broader network of family support services available on base. These collaborations create a synergistic effect, maximizing the benefits for military families and strengthening the sense of community on base.
The family-friendly environment at the Pensacola NAS cinema is not merely an incidental feature but a deliberate and integral aspect of its operation. By understanding the specific needs and challenges faced by military families and actively addressing those needs through programming, facility design, and operational policies, the theater becomes a vital resource for family well-being. This focus on families strengthens the overall military community, contributing to resilience, morale, and ultimately, mission readiness. While challenges such as balancing diverse programming preferences and managing logistical considerations will inevitably arise, the ongoing commitment to creating a positive and supportive environment for families remains paramount. This commitment underscores the recognition of families as the cornerstone of the military community and the critical role the cinema plays in supporting their well-being.
9. Regular Showtimes
Regular showtimes at the Pensacola NAS movie theater are essential for its effective function as a recreational resource for base personnel. Consistent and predictable scheduling allows individuals to plan movie outings around their often demanding and variable work schedules, maximizing accessibility and contributing to the theater’s role in supporting morale and overall quality of life. This reliability distinguishes the on-base cinema from less predictable entertainment options and solidifies its position as a dependable leisure resource within the military community. The following explores the multifaceted nature of regular showtimes and their impact on the base.
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Predictable Scheduling & Accessibility
Regular showtimes provide a predictable framework that allows personnel to seamlessly integrate movie-going into their routines. This predictability is particularly important in the military environment, where schedules can change rapidly and unpredictably. Knowing that the theater operates on a consistent schedule reduces logistical barriers and ensures accessibility, regardless of work shifts or duty requirements. This reliability enhances the theater’s appeal as a convenient and dependable entertainment option.
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Work-Life Balance & Stress Reduction
The ability to attend movies during designated showtimes facilitates a healthy work-life balance, a crucial aspect of maintaining well-being within the demanding context of military service. Regular access to entertainment provides an outlet for stress reduction and promotes relaxation, contributing to improved mental and emotional health. For instance, personnel working long or irregular hours can rely on the consistent showtimes to plan leisure activities and disconnect from work-related pressures. This structured approach to entertainment supports overall well-being and enhances resilience within the military community.
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Family Time & Community Building
Consistent showtimes facilitate family outings and social gatherings, strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of community within the base. Families can confidently plan movie nights knowing the theater operates on a reliable schedule. Similarly, groups of friends or colleagues can easily coordinate outings, promoting social interaction and camaraderie. This shared experience of movie-going strengthens social connections within the military community, contributing to unit cohesion and a stronger sense of belonging.
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Operational Efficiency & Resource Management
Regular showtimes contribute to the efficient operation of the theater itself, allowing for effective resource allocation and staffing. Predictable scheduling facilitates efficient management of personnel, concessions inventory, and overall theater operations. This operational efficiency ensures the theater can consistently deliver quality service and maximize its resources to effectively serve the base community. Consistent showtimes also allow the theater to optimize film licensing agreements and maximize attendance, contributing to its financial sustainability.
The establishment of regular showtimes at the Pensacola NAS movie theater is a seemingly simple yet crucial element in its success as a recreational resource. This predictability contributes significantly to the theater’s accessibility, fosters a sense of community, and supports the overall well-being of base personnel. By examining the multifaceted impact of regular showtimes, it becomes clear that they represent a crucial element in the theater’s ability to fulfill its mission of providing accessible, reliable, and valuable entertainment within the military environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding the cinema located at Naval Air Station Pensacola. The information provided aims to offer clarity and practical guidance for those interested in utilizing this recreational resource.
Question 1: Who is eligible to access the movie theater at NAS Pensacola?
Access is typically granted to active duty military personnel, their dependents, retirees, reservists, Department of Defense civilian employees, and authorized guests. Specific eligibility requirements may vary.
Question 2: How can showtimes and movie listings be accessed?
Information regarding current movie showtimes and listings can typically be found on the NAS Pensacola Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) website, the base newspaper, or digital signage around the base. The theater itself may also have a dedicated phone line or display boards with current information.
Question 3: Are ticket prices different from commercial theaters?
Ticket prices at on-base theaters are generally lower than those at commercial cinemas. This affordability is a key benefit for military personnel and their families.
Question 4: Are there specific rules or regulations regarding behavior within the theater?
Standard movie theater etiquette applies, such as maintaining quiet during the film and refraining from disruptive behavior. Additional base-specific regulations may also be in effect. Checking with theater staff or consulting posted guidelines is advisable.
Question 5: What types of concessions are available at the theater?
A typical selection of movie concessions, including popcorn, candy, soft drinks, and other snacks, is usually available. Specific offerings may vary.
Question 6: Is the theater accessible to individuals with disabilities?
On-base facilities typically adhere to accessibility guidelines. However, confirming specific accommodations for individuals with disabilities directly with the theater management is recommended.
Access to affordable entertainment and recreational opportunities contributes significantly to the quality of life for military personnel and their families. The cinema at NAS Pensacola serves as an important resource in this regard.
For further information or specific inquiries, contacting the NAS Pensacola MWR office directly is recommended.
Tips for a Smooth Movie Experience at NAS Pensacola Cinema
The following tips are provided to ensure a pleasant and convenient movie-going experience at the Naval Air Station Pensacola cinema. Following these suggestions can maximize enjoyment and minimize potential inconveniences.
Tip 1: Check Showtimes and Listings in Advance: Consulting the NAS Pensacola Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) website, base newspaper, or on-base digital signage for current movie schedules and showtimes is recommended. This allows for efficient planning and avoids potential disappointment.
Tip 2: Arrive Early: Arriving early, especially for popular showtimes or new releases, allows ample time for ticket purchase, concessions selection, and seating. This minimizes potential delays and ensures a relaxed start to the movie experience.
Tip 3: Consider Base Access Requirements: Individuals without base access should coordinate entry procedures with their sponsors in advance. Ensuring proper authorization streamlines entry to the base and avoids delays.
Tip 4: Familiarize Oneself with Base Regulations: Reviewing any base-specific regulations regarding permitted items, behavior within the theater, or other relevant policies is advisable. This ensures a smooth and compliant visit.
Tip 5: Utilize On-Base Transportation Options: Exploring available on-base transportation options, such as shuttle services or public transportation, can simplify travel to the theater, particularly for those residing in base housing or without personal vehicles.
Tip 6: Take Advantage of Concession Deals: Checking for available concession deals or combo offers can provide cost savings, particularly for families or groups. The MWR website or the theater itself may advertise current promotions.
Tip 7: Maintain Proper Theater Etiquette: Maintaining respectful behavior within the theater, such as keeping conversations quiet and refraining from using cell phones, ensures a pleasant movie experience for all patrons.
Following these tips contributes to a positive and enjoyable movie-going experience at the NAS Pensacola cinema. Planning and awareness of base-specific procedures maximizes convenience and ensures a smooth visit.
By understanding these practical considerations, patrons can fully appreciate the recreational benefits offered by the cinema at NAS Pensacola.
The Pensacola NAS Movie Theater
The Pensacola NAS movie theater stands as more than a simple entertainment venue; it represents a vital resource for the military community it serves. Its convenient location, affordable pricing, family-friendly environment, and regular showtimes combine to create a valuable support structure for military personnel and their families. Access to current film releases provides a sense of normalcy and connection to popular culture, while the availability of concessions enhances the overall movie-going experience. The theater’s focus on affordability and accessibility ensures its benefits reach a broad spectrum of the base population, contributing to enhanced morale and a stronger sense of community.
The continued operation and support of facilities like the Pensacola NAS movie theater remain essential for maintaining a resilient and thriving military community. Recognizing the theater’s multifaceted contributions to morale, family well-being, and overall quality of life underscores its significance as a valuable community asset. The readily available entertainment and sense of community fostered within the theater’s walls directly contribute to the strength and readiness of the military personnel it serves. Investing in and sustaining such resources is an investment in the overall health and effectiveness of the military community.
