The Salvation Army Mississippi Gulf Coast Area Command is under the leadership of Majors Gary and Beth Sturdivant, who serve the entire lower six counties of Southern Mississippi as Area Commanders.

Prior to coming to the Coast, the Majors were the Divisional Youth Leaders for the state of Georgia and operated the camp for the division.

The news of their appointment didn’t surprise the Majors. As Salvation Army Officers, the Sturdivants expect to be reassigned throughout their careers. The commitment to being an Officer includes moving your family frequently and accepting reassignments based on career development and filling the needs of The Salvation Army locations. The assignment on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is an acknowledgment of their ability to manage a growing community center, rebuilding communities and congregation.

Motivated by the love of God and passion for helping others, the Sturdivants made the decision to become Salvation Army officers in 1993. They were both born and raised in North Carolina and have three children, Austin, Aaron, and Aleah and now have 2 grandchildren.  They have served The Salvation Army as Corps Officers in Arkansas, Georgia, Texas and North Carolina.

They cannot explain how excited they are to serve on the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast. A place they remember spelling as young people as M, I, crooked letter, crooked letter, I, crooked letter, crooked letter, I, humpback, humpback, I.

They share a passion for families and children and strive to express God’s love to all people in everything that they do.