The Rock Island Arsenal is stepping up to impress decision-makers at a time when political support and communication could be more important than ever.
That's the word from military and civilian leaders working to keep it thriving during challenging times.
The Joint Munitions Command is one of the Arsenal's strongest selling points.
It employs some 650 local civilians who provide soldiers with ammunition across the globe.
Incoming commander, BG Richard Dix, says this is no time to make cuts.
"It's that much longer to be able to respond," he said. "You put the country at risk when you do that. Lethal, ready and reliable ammunition is vital to our national security."
Reasons why the Arsenal's factory is seeking more military and civilian projects these days.
A $96-million deal to retrofit Humvees into ambulances shows versatility during peacetime.
Now, time to make a public relations push to make sure that Washington remembers Arsenal accomplishments.
"We want to reach out and talk to the decision makers," said BG Dix. "We want to invite them to the installation, invite them to the other depots."
Challenges include keeping work that's already there while bringing more assignments to the Arsenal.
That's crucial for insuring its future.
The Arsenal nearly closed for good a decade ago.
Its factory has lost more than 600 jobs in recent years.
It also faces internal competition from other U.S. bases.
"What's the thing that's going to keep this place open or close it?" asked East Moline Mayor John Thodos, who also chairs the Arsenal Development Group. "It's politics."
Those political visits serve an important role for keeping the skilled, quality workforce in place to preserve more than 5,600 local jobs.
"This is a national treasure," BG Dix said. "Not just the Arsenal, but the Joint Munitions Command as well."
At Monday's ceremony, making a push to keep the Rock Island Arsenal front and center for decades to come.