177th Wing family program manager outlines base-community partnerships and infrastructure plans

Ryan Lertzlo, family program manager for the 177th Wing, addressed the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners during the 'good of the order' portion of the April 21 meeting, summarizing community-engagement efforts and infrastructure needs at the base.

Lertzlo described a "Care Day" program that brings community partners to the base to share services and resources with airmen and their families. He said he works closely with local institutions including Stockton University and Atlantic Cape Community College to link education, training and workforce opportunities to base personnel.

On infrastructure, Lertzlo said the base has suffered storm-related damage in recent months and is undergoing phased reconstruction. He told the board the wing has received "a little over a $180,000,000 of federal grant for infrastructure and innovation" and said the facility will see major upgrades over the next several years. He also described interest in developing regional training programs tied to aeronautics, AI and drone certification for local students.

Commissioners asked about tours, coordination and outreach; Lertzlo said tours can be arranged with the public affairs office and that the wing is prioritizing community relations, outreach and workforce connections. He also noted the wing's ongoing philanthropic and community-service activities with VFW posts and senior centers.

Lertzlo's remarks were presented as informational; no formal action was taken by the board during this presentation.