St. Mary’s County Looks To Strengthen Global Ties With New Foreign Liaison Officer Initiative

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — In a county known for its deep ties to naval aviation, a quieter global presence has long been woven into the fabric of St. Mary’s County — one that leaders now say holds untapped potential for economic growth, cultural connection and international influence.

At the April 21 meeting of the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, officials unveiled a new initiative aimed at better engaging, supporting and promoting the more than 70 foreign liaison officers stationed at Naval Air Station Patuxent River and the families who accompany them.

“These are things that you’re going to say, well, we had no idea,” said Ron Weinberger, a former Naval Air Systems Command international programs leader who now serves as a consultant. “But don’t feel too bad, there’s folks inside the gate that don’t know about the international community, either.”

A Hidden International Community

Behind the gates of NAS Patuxent River — and often scattered throughout the surrounding community — are military officers from nearly a dozen countries, including Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada and Germany.

According to county documents, St. Mary’s County hosts more than 70 international military officers and an estimated 210 family members, making it one of the largest concentrations of foreign military personnel in the nation.

“These folks come here with no support for their transition,” Weinberger said. “They’re close to the embassies, but too far from the embassies… so they’re on their own to figure out where to live, where to put their kids in school. So it’s quite a shock.”

For many families, St. Mary’s County is their first experience living abroad.

“Their first time overseas is right here in St. Mary’s County,” he said.

Economic Impact With Global Reach

While the presence of these officers may go largely unnoticed, their impact is anything but small.

According to the presentation, foreign investment tied to programs at NAS Patuxent River has grown approximately 242% over the past decade, reaching an estimated $113 billion in fiscal year 2025.

That investment supports hundreds of local jobs and contractors and fuels the broader economy through travel, lodging, dining and business partnerships.

“It’s a thousand people… but it’s fragmented,” Weinberger said. “What we want to do is try to pull all this together.”

County officials say that improving the experience of these officers and their families could have long-term ripple effects.

“The best and brightest” officers, Weinberger noted, often return home to positions of influence.

“If their families are having a good time… that’s a good statement,” he said. “When they go back home, they’re going to be in a position of influence.”

From Awareness To Action

The initiative, presented by Weinberger alongside Cindy Greb, director of the Department of Economic Development, and Deputy Director Kellie Hinkle, is still in its early stages — but outlines a clear path forward.

Phase one focuses on awareness and engagement, followed by building infrastructure and partnerships, and ultimately launching coordinated strategies to attract international business and investment.

“We have all the ingredients that we need to make St. Mary’s County not only the center of international aviation for Maryland, but across the U.S. as well,” Weinberger said.

The plan also builds on partnerships with local organizations, including schools, tourism agencies and military family support groups, to create a more welcoming and connected community.

Addressing Real-Life Challenges

“English is not always the first language,” Weinberger said, noting the importance of coordination with local schools and support services.

Even small gestures, he added, can make a lasting difference.

Building A Stronger Future — Locally And Globally

County leaders emphasized that the initiative is about more than hospitality — it’s about positioning St. Mary’s County as a key player in international defense partnerships and economic development.

“This initiative is not only an opportunity for a pipeline for future international business development for the county, but so much more,” Hinkle said during the presentation.

“We have a great opportunity to make that influence a positive one for them,” Weinberger said.

A Community That Leaves A Lasting Impression

For Weinberger, the initiative is ultimately about people and the impressions they carry home.

He shared the story of a foreign officer’s son who grew up in St. Mary’s County before returning to his home country.

“He had a great time here… loved being here,” Weinberger said. “So he’s going back as an ambassador.”

That, county leaders say, is the goal.

Not just to host an international community, but to ensure that when they leave, they carry St. Mary’s County with them.

You can watch the full initiative below at 1:30:27.

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