MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --
Maxwell's installation commander, including other Alabama military leaders, attended a joint legislative session on March 19, 2026, for the state's annual military appreciation day.
The day was proclaimed Alabama State Legislature Military Appreciation Day to honor the state’s military, veterans and families.
The event at the State House gathered military, veterans and defense community leaders, the Alabama Military Stability Commission and Foundation and other stakeholders from across the state.
Following the presentation of the colors by the Maxwell Honor Guard and comments from legislative leadership, military leaders addressed the session.
During her remarks, Col. Shamekia Toliver, Maxwell installation commander, thanked the legislature for passing Senate Bill 149, Military Veteran Temporary Teaching Certificate, which allows veterans to teach in K-12 classrooms.
“I would like to publicly thank this legislative body for the passage of the bill and for the governor signing it into law,” said Toliver. “This allows our veterans who have made tremendous sacrifices and have valuable leadership skills to serve in classrooms. The youth will reap the benefits of their experiences.”
Receiving gratitude and recognition from the state legislature on behalf of the Airmen at Maxwell was an honor, she said, adding that it’s a reflection of Alabama’s support for all military members and their families serving in the state.
"The essential partnership between military commanders and state legislators is crucial for fostering a state that actively supports its service members,” said Toliver. “This collaboration directly leads to impactful, military friendly legislation—from tax exemptions to professional licensure for spouses—that solves complex issues and ensures Alabama is not just a host for our military, but a true home for them and their families."
The other leaders who spoke were: