New ‘Mission 3’ organization launched to bolster Mississippi Gulf Coast defense economy

JACKSON, Miss. — A new public-private nonprofit organization, Mission 3, has launched to support and strengthen the military and defense sectors on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Gov. Tate Reeves announced Thursday.

The organization’s name reflects its three core pillars: Military, Defense, and Community. Its goal is to unite South Mississippi communities to ensure the long-term success of the region’s military assets while expanding economic opportunities.

“Mississippi’s military and defense communities are worthy of appreciation, support and investment,” Reeves said in a statement. “Through Mission 3, Mississippi will add another valuable tool in its toolbox to better support those who have sacrificed so much for us.”

The Gulf Coast is home to major defense assets, including Keesler Air Force Base, Camp Shelby, Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, and Stennis Space Center. The governor’s office noted these installations anchor thousands of jobs and are vital to national security.

The initiative responds to federal mission decisions that increasingly prioritize regions showing strong public-private collaboration, workforce development, and quality of life.

“Mission 3 is our region’s answer to a changing defense economy,” said Jamie Miller, president and CEO of the Gulf Coast Business Council. “It’s how we protect what we’ve built, grow what we’ve earned, and do right by the service members and families who serve us all.”

New Leadership and Strategic Goals

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Drake has been named the organization’s first executive director. Drake, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Army War College, served in Iraq and was the chief of staff for the National Guard Association of the U.S.

“Mission 3 will bring military leaders, businesses, and local officials together to speak with one unified voice – because no single organization can protect, enhance, and expand our region’s defense economy alone,” Drake said.

According to the announcement, Mission 3 will focus on:

• Advocating for new military missions and protecting existing ones.
• Coordinating defense-related workforce and education efforts.
• Supporting infrastructure, housing, and quality-of-life improvements for military families.
• Attracting private investment linked to defense needs.

The organization’s launch follows a yearlong study by the Gulf Coast Business Council Masters Class. It was established with a Defense Community Support Program grant from the Mississippi Development Authority, in coordination with the Governor’s Office of Military Affairs.