Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield in coastal Georgia recently hosted a Community Information Exchange (CIE), bringing together more than 100 garrison leaders, unit representatives, and military spouses to share critical updates and strengthen communication across the installation. The quarterly forum, held Feb. 10 at Club Stewart, marked the first CIE in over a year after a previously scheduled session in fall 2025 was postponed due to a government shutdown. Designed as a platform for transparency and collaboration, the event enables installation agencies and military leadership to exchange information that directly impacts Soldiers and their families.

Key topics addressed during the session included upcoming community events and services such as a housing town hall, youth sports registration, Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Pre-Kindergarten enrollment, and volunteer recognition initiatives. Representatives from support organizations also highlighted available programs, ensuring attendees were aware of resources accessible both on and off the installation.

A major focus of the exchange was preparedness for the upcoming “Black Start Exercise,” a congressionally mandated test of the installation’s ability to operate during a prolonged power outage. Officials emphasized the importance of readiness and distributed guidance to help families prepare for emergency conditions.

The event also encouraged open dialogue, with attendees raising questions on topics ranging from emergency procedures to youth services and installation access processes. This interaction reinforced the role of the CIE as a two-way communication channel between leadership and the broader military community.

“These sessions provide transparency by bringing our entire community together and ensuring that leaders and families have what they need to support our Soldiers,” said Brig. Gen. Kevin Bradley.

Leaders concluded the session by urging participants to share the information within their respective units and communities, emphasizing that effective communication at all levels is essential to mission readiness and overall quality of life. By fostering collaboration, disseminating timely information, and encouraging feedback, the Community Information Exchange continues to serve as a vital tool in strengthening both operational effectiveness and community cohesion across Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield.