WV Governor Visits NIOC Sugar Grove

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joel Carlson, Navy Information Operations Center Sugar Grove Public Affairs

June 14, 2010 - SUGAR GROVE, W. Va. (NNS) -- The governor of West Virginia visited Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC) Sugar Grove, W. Va., June 10.

Gov. Joe Manchin arrived via helicopter and toured both the upper and lower areas of the base. He was escorted by NIOC Sugar Grove Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Christopher Chrislip and other members of the NIOC chain of command.

"This was my chance to see firsthand what is done here," said Manchin. "I never really imagined how far the base reaches out and pulls in the state, the community and all the people around. I am so appreciative of this opportunity to visit."

Manchin also participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for the base's new youth activity center.

"It's very important the children know that somebody cares for them, and it's great that the newest building being built on base is being built for them," Manchin said.

Manchin spoke about the importance of education in West Virginia before scooping a shovelful of soil on the site for the future YAC. He also met with West Virginia residents who were serving a tour of duty at Sugar Grove.

"Having the governor here was a big honor," said Yeoman 2nd Class (SS) Matthew Sampson. "I grew up only a few miles from here, and now, because of my military service, I was given the chance to meet and talk with my own governor."

Manchin also recognized that West Virginia was not the "typical" location for a Navy base, and encouraged service members to take full advantage of all that the base and surrounding community had to offer.

"You're in the most patriotic state in our nation," Manchin said. "So take a deep breath, open your eyes and enjoy your time here."