Navy's Chief Training Officer Tells Business Leaders Open Seas Ensure American Prosperity Published Nov. 3, 2009 By Joy Samsel Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- "Our Navy exists to provide for the safety, security and prosperity of America." That was one of the messages delivered to more than 500 business leaders by Rear Adm. Joseph Kilkenny, commander, Naval Education and Training Command. The event was the annual Combined Rotary Military Appreciation Luncheon held Nov. 2 at the New World Landing restaurant in Pensacola, Fla. Addressing the audience, Kilkenny explained the importance of free seas to America's commerce and security. "Pensacola has deep roots in maritime history," Kilkenny said. "As early as the 16th century, Pensacola Bay was mentioned in the conversations of those who lead the maritime nations of Western Europe. "Today, the economies of Pensacola, and indeed the entire United States, are tied to the seas. As many of you may know, 90 percent of the world's commerce travels by sea. The vast majority of the world's population lives within a few hundred miles of the oceans, and nearly three quarters of the planet is covered by water. Because the maritime domain - the world's oceans, seas, bays, estuaries, islands, coastal areas, littorals, and the airspace above them - supports 90 percent of the world's trade, it carries the lifeblood of the global system that links every country on earth. It links Pensacola to the world." Kilkenny also gave the audience a snapshot of how the military stationed in Pensacola affects the community. "We introduce a diverse cross-section of America to the city where 'thousands live, and the way millions wish they could'", he said. "In fiscal year 2008 more than 4,000 uniformed staff at the local training commands provided training for more than 14,000 military students. These military members come from every state in the nation, as well as many of our allied nations." Citing information from a 2008 economic impact report compiled by Naval Air Station Pensacola, Kilkenny told the business leaders the gross salaries of the uniformed military staff and students exceeded $710 million. For the more than 4,000 civilian employees at area military commands, their salaries exceed $210 million. According to Kilkenny, the military impact on the local community can be measured in more than dollars. "Every command has active community outreach programs that touch the lives of the elderly, the homeless, and others, as well as our nation's most precious treasure, our children," Kilkenny said. "Working with the various support organizations and schools in the area, our commands logged more 119,000 volunteer hours last year. This too is the legacy of the military in Pensacola."