Veterans in Prattville: A Great Home After Military Career

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Transitioning military members and veterans in Prattville and Autauga County are choosing to plant roots here, thanks to the region’s high quality of life assets and its bountiful career opportunities. 

Located just outside of the city, Maxwell Air Force Base fosters a strong military presence in the region, and many veterans choose to stay after hanging up their uniforms. Many are attracted to the region’s outdoor recreation options and easy access to cultural activities in Montgomery. 

Veterans in Prattville Enjoy the Proximity and the People 

“Our proximity is great,” says David Lewis, chairman of the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee. “We’re three hours from the beach, three hours from the mountains and three hours from Atlanta.” 

The region’s location, however, is far from its greatest asset. “The area’s friendliness is why people enjoy living here,” Lewis says. “Alabama is a hospitable state, but Prattville, in particular, is extremely hospitable.” 

He moved to the region right out of college, expecting to spend a year here and moving on. Approximately 28 years later, he says he and his wife love the community. “I know my neighbors, and we are involved and invested in each other’s lives,” he says. 

The region offers fertile ground for transitioning members and veterans. For example, Joe Mathis, a retired Air Force colonel and pilot, finished his service at Maxwell AFB, stayed in the region and invested his time in the community, serving as president of the chamber and a board member, a YMCA trustee, and a leader in his church. 

Former Marine helicopter pilot Joe Turner started a commercial real estate business and is involved in economic development. John Pigg, also retired Air Force, founded Pigg Enterprises, a successful used-car business. 

“Military retirees are engaged in all aspects of our community,” Lewis says. “They are such assets as citizens, volunteers and leaders. That just makes Prattville better.” 

Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce

Opportunities Abound in the Region

Speaking of new careers, Edward Clinton and his wife, Esther, both found great jobs in the region after finishing their careers at Maxwell AFB. 

A former teacher, Esther went to work for the school system, while Edward worked school security until he took a job with the Parks and Recreation Department. Edward was later offered an opportunity to lead the city’s Sanitation Department – evidence that the region’s respect for military service translates into opportunities for great jobs in Prattville. 

Edward says Prattville was the right choice for his family – and still is. “It’s been great to watch this region grow and to be a part of it,” he says. “Home is what you make of it; here, people have opportunities to contribute.” 

Clinton says he would encourage other veterans to consider Prattville. “This area is more than just what you see – and you see a lot of great things,” he says. “I tell people I’m not leaving. They are going to have to run me out.”