Despite fluctuations and uncertainty plaguing other segments of the job market, the military has remained constant and insulated from the recession, which is good news for Valdosta-Lowndes County. A recent study shows that the 23rd Wing of Moody Air Force Base has a $409 million impact on the local economy, larger than any other entity.

The study, conducted by the 23rd Comptroller Squadron at Moody, shows that the active duty military component has grown significantly over the last decade, up to 5,200 now, with an addition of Reservists and National Guard. Adding an additional 653 civilian positions and Moody AFB is by far the largest employer in the county, as well as the Southeast Georgia region.

A breakdown of pay and job creation in the report demonstrates that the direct monetary impact flowing into the community is well over $300 million in wages and compensation.

In addition, the many construction projects funded by the government at Moody have allowed another $97 million to be pumped back into the area.

Moody’s impact has grown significantly through the last decade as the number of civilian and active duty workers has grown by nearly 2,000. The base currently has more than a half dozen construction projects ongoing, employing dozens of local contractors and subcontractors.