Goldsboro, NC – Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein visited Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro today, hosting a Friendsgiving meal to honor and support the servicemembers stationed there. The couple helped serve lunch before sitting down with airmen for a holiday meal. Seymour Johnson is home to the renowned 4th Fighter Wing, one of the most distinguished fighter units in the world.

Governor Stein emphasized the importance of recognizing the state’s servicemembers.
“Our servicemembers show up for us every single day, and we owe them a debt of gratitude,” Stein said. “It was great to meet Colonel Lohse and airmen from around the country and tour the base. Today reminded me how grateful I am for the courage and bravery of the state’s more than 135,000 active servicemembers. Anna and I enjoyed our Friendsgiving with the airmen, and I remain committed to making North Carolina the most military and veteran-friendly state in the country.”

First Lady Anna Stein echoed that message, focusing on the families behind the uniform.
“Thanksgiving is all about family,” she said. “When our troops are stationed at a new base or deployed, their families feel that impact too. I’m grateful we had the chance to visit with these brave men and women and share our appreciation for all they do for North Carolina and our country.”

North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Secretary Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette said the Governor’s visit highlighted strong support for the military community.
“By sharing a meal and spending time with the Seymour Johnson community, he recognizes not only their mission, but also the people behind it — their dedication, resilience, and sacrifices,” she said.

Colonel Morgan Lohse, Commander of the 4th Fighter Wing, said hosting the Governor and First Lady was meaningful for the airmen.
“Their genuine appreciation for the men and women who serve is deeply felt, and we are grateful for their continued support,” Lohse said.

Earlier this year, Governor Stein announced North Carolina’s participation in the “Do Your Part” initiative, a collaboration between Blue Star Families and the National Governors Association. The effort focuses on strengthening community support for military families, a critical component of readiness and retention.

The Stein administration continues to prioritize veteran healthcare, housing, and economic opportunity. The North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs links veterans to services and support, while workforce programs like NCWorks help connect transitioning service members to civilian careers.

Just last week, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services expanded support services for veterans with extended NCServes hours and the launch of AskMeNC — tools designed to improve access to mental health care, housing, employment, and peer support for the state’s more than 600,000 veterans.