ALCOM CAB celebrates 50 years

  • Published
  • By Capt. Tania Bryan
  • Alaskan Command Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  In 1962, Lt. Gen. George Mundy, the Commander-in-Chief of military forces in Alaska, formed a Civilian Advisory Board (CAB) of influential members of the local community; 50 years later, that partnership is stronger than ever.

There were 16 original members, all brought together with a common goal of building rapport and maintaining communications between the military and civilian communities to achieve a unity of purpose and mutual benefits in their relationship.

"Over the past 50 years, CAB members have very successfully acted as the bridge between the military in Alaska and our off-base partners," said Lt. Gen. Steve Hoog, commander of Alaskan Command. "I've never seen a partnership as strong or a community as supportive as I've seen here in Alaska."

The ALCOM CAB was honored during a biannual meeting, which included a trip to Coast Guard Station Kodiak, to see first-hand the mission of both Coastguardsmen and Sailors there. Most notably Dan Cuddy, Chairman and President of First National Bank Alaska and one of the original 16 members, was honored for his 50 years of continued service to the ALCOM CAB.

"Dan's commitment to Alaska's military has been a life-long campaign, his service and dedication to the men and women in the military has been outstanding," Hoog said.
Members of the CAB include a cross-section of business, professional, civic, political, and education leaders from throughout the state. They act as personal advisors to the commander of Alaskan Command on matters affecting the relationship between military and civilian populations and organizations across Alaska.

Throughout the history of the CAB, its members have been instrumental in building awareness of military missions in local communities, as well as enabling veteran and retiree support programs. Their unique first-hand knowledge has built a foundation for advocacy of the military in Alaska.

Lt. Gen. Mundy's vision of creating a board of advocates for Alaska's military is as relevant today as it was 50 years ago.

"It is impossible for me to express fully my appreciation for the interest and enthusiasm that was so evident at our first meeting," Mundy said in 1962. "I am sure the Advisory Board will accomplish much in the months and years to come. Our plateaus of achievement are limited only by ourselves."