Plew plants a prophetic mustard seed for Eglin AFB
On June 14, 1937, the Valparaiso Gunnery Range was established with a small post of 14 enlisted men and a single officer, marking the beginning of what would become the largest industry in Okaloosa County. Local business leader James Plew leased the original land to ensure government money bolstered the flagging local economy. The base quickly grew and shifted to a more lucrative test-and-evaluation mission, a transition encouraged by Congressman Bob Sikes. Sikes intentionally drove significant construction, ensuring the base’s indispensability and making the cost of shrinking the military presence after World War II too painful for the Department of War. Plew’s initial investment proved highly effective, as the Air Force Base accounted for nearly 70 cents of every dollar made in Okaloosa County businesses in 2025.
This forgotten speech NAILED the future of American Special Forces
In his 1962 West Point speech, President Kennedy argued that modern conflicts require the “scalpel-like precision of the Special Forces operator,” not nuclear power. He emphasized that officers in these units needed to understand international diplomacy, economics, and psychology, noting that the basic problems facing the world are not susceptible of a final military solution.
Niceville High Students Navigate the Cost of Adult Life
Niceville High students took on adult financial responsibilities during the annual “Reality Check” simulation, learning budgeting skills through real-world scenarios.
Judge sets trial date for deputy charged with murdering Hurlburt airman
After almost two years of waiting, both the former Okaloosa Deputy accused of murdering a Hurlburt airman and the airman’s family have a trial date.
Eglin Tightens Control Over Popular Local Waterways
Boaters around Eglin Air Force Base may now need permits to enter newly restricted waterways as military officials respond to emerging security threats.
Former AFSOC chief will face general court-martial
Former AFSOC Chief Master Sergeant Anthony Green will face a general court-martial to answer charges of creating child pornography
Drone Espionage Act Hits Home on the Emerald Coast
Sen. Ashley Moody’s Drone Espionage Act advanced out of committee Thursday, targeting unauthorized drone surveillance of U.S. military installations — including airspace over parts of the Emerald Coast.
For Gap Creek Residents, Flooding Problems Are Not Wishlist Items
Every time it rains, Gap Creek rises — and so do the frustrations of residents who say government promises keep flowing, but real fixes never arrive.
Mary Esther leaders mobilize to fight proposed closure of elementary school
Mary Esther officials and residents are mounting a public pushback against the Okaloosa County School District’s proposal to close Mary Esther Elementary, arguing the nearly 60-year-old school is central to the city’s identity, family stability and military readiness.
Congress OKs More Than $590M for Panhandle Military Construction Projects
One Panhandle base is set to receive more than $219 million under the new defense bill. See the full breakdown of projects Congress just approved. ⬇️
