T

he demonstration by engineers and researchers at the U.S. Army’s Engineering, Research and Design Center was impressive. Anytime you see an M1 Abrams tank that weighs in excess of 60 tons do anything, it is impressive.

But, what is more impressive than the tests and demonstrations performed Tuesday that showed capabilities to improve surfaces for a variety of military vehicles and equipment, is the continued overall impact ERDC, the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has on the Vicksburg community.

Much of what goes on “behind the gate” is kept close to the vest for important reasons. The missions and research that are conducted by engineers and scientists at the facilities go to help the missions of our men and women and uniform, and that — as hard as it is to say — is far more important than the curiosity we have in knowing.

What is also impressive, is the billions of dollars in development funds that go to support the studies, the programs and the crucial research each year.

Vicksburg’s history would not be what it is without the long-standing partnership between it and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and ERDC. And, Vicksburg’s bright future will not be possible without that continued partnership.

The expected growth of personnel at some of the ERDC and Corps facilities means the research and work performed here is held in very high regard by those beyond Vicksburg.

It also means they believe in the city of Vicksburg, Warren County, and the community that has become a home away from home for so many “transplants.”

Officials with the city of Vicksburg, Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, businesses and community leaders have been working to find ways to both welcome and accommodate the expected growth, hoping to convince those joining the ranks of ERDC and the Corps that Vicksburg is the perfect place to call home and raise a family.

The impact the Corps and ERDC have had on Vicksburg has been impressive, but the feeling is, what is ahead of us will be something far more so.