Commissioners learn from the Air Force Reserve Command Headquarters, honor John Harley 

PERRY — Houston County Commissioners heard from MSgt. Nathan Larios of the Air Force Reserve Command Headquarters. 

Larios said he enlisted in the Army fresh out of high school in 1994. A career spanning 31 years, Larios mentioned he had been to Japan, South Korea, Hawaii and Australia. Larios also spent some time in Iraq, Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia, which he said was very unique. 

“My reasons for enlisting were multifaceted as it was for my own personal growth and skill, maybe I could be a mechanic because I loved cars, but it was mostly to go out on my own,” he said. “Coincidentally, it does seem like I managed to get really close right down here in Houston County.” 

Being in Houston County, Larios said he feels welcome and has enjoyed his stay, however, he is not permanently assigned to Houston County. 

“Although I’m not permanently assigned here, I’ve spent a combined total of almost one year on orders out here supporting various missions for the Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command and I’ve managed to experience the two seasons as well, the hot and not hot,” he said. 

Larios said they are the backbone of the Defense Confrontation Network by moving cargo and providing global reach of all sorts of cargo. 

“[We move] just about every vehicle known to man, giant 40 foot containers, whales believe it or not and submarines,” he said. “All this will be loaded on our C-5s and C-17s.” 

Larios’ current role is with the Commander’s Action Group (CAG). He said it was a big switch from his previous job. 

“Simply, I assist by providing clear and consistent messaging of the communication team, like journalists. Priorities can seemingly change by the minute and you want and need a dedicated A-team and you want them to back up and defend your worst,” he said. “Strong writing skills and communication are the tools of the trade now.” 

Larios shared that his years of experience, military education, and the connections he has made have opened up many doors for him personally and professionally. 

Commissioners gave thanks to Larios for his military efforts. 

“This is the great privilege of our first Tuesday of the month meetings to have active service members come and speak to us, and I’ve never had the sense so far that there has ever been a desire for credit. Y’all deserve more credit than anybody in this room,” Commissioner Shane Gottwals said. 

“Thank you for sharing your experiences with us and we’re glad to have you and your wife here. We appreciate your service and all that you do for our community and for the Air Force and our nation,” Commissioner Gail Robinson said. 

The Board also recognized former Mayor of Centerville John Harley. Chairman Dan Perdue issued a proclamation in Harley’s honor. 

The proclamation said Harley served as the Mayor of the City of Centerville from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2024. 

“John Harley served as the City Administrator for two and a half years and also Chairman of the Middle Georgia Regional Commission, Board member of Lauring Federal Credit Union, Chairman of the Museum of Aviation Auction Committee, Chairman of the Middle Georgia Clean Air Coalition and numerous other Boards and organizations,” the proclamation said. “John Harley also enlisted in the Georgia Army National Guard, served in the destruction of the Berlin Wall, the Cuban Missile Crisis, Vietnam War, numerous other stations and returned after serving 34 years and had a successful career in the private sector……The Board of Commissioners of Houston County now recognize John Harley on his many achievements, years of service to his community, for being an inspiration to others and for the positive example he has established on his children and for generations to come.” 

Perdue thanked Harley for his service to the City of Centerville and service on the many boards and organizations. 

“Thank you for your selfless service as it was not about John Harley,” he said. “Anytime that you did something, it was not about you getting the credit or you shining the light on yourself, it was about serving the citizens who you were elected to serve. I cannot think of a more selfless servant than you are.”

Harley then recognized his family in attendance including his wife of almost 60 years, Shirley, daughter Kim, son, John II and his granddaughter Sky. Harley also acknowledged Centerville City Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tempore Michael Evans. Evans is running to be the next Mayor of Centerville with Harley’s endorsement. 

“All of the years I have been here, I can always count on the support of the County Commissioners and your staff,” Harley said. “Thank you so much for this honor.” 

In new business, the Board approved multiple special exemptions applications. They denied a landscaping business and tabled a construction business. 

The Board also approved the annual “Run 2 End Alzheimer’s at the Landings” 5k and 10k runs. According to the agenda, these races raised over $48,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. 

The next Houston County Commissioners meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18 at 5 p.m., located at 200 Carl Vinson Parkway. 

The full agenda of this meeting can be found at www.houstoncountyga.gov/minutes/agenda03042025.pdf