Mayor Ciara Smith-Roston Tours Anniston Army Depot
ANNISTON, AL — Mayor Ciara Smith-Roston toured the Anniston Army Depot (ANAD) on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, receiving an up-close look at one of the region’s most vital economic and defense assets.
During the visit, the Mayor was provided an overview briefing on the depot’s mission and operations, followed by a tour of the Combat Vehicle Assembly/Disassembly Building and the Small Arms Division.
Over the decades, Anniston Army Depot has evolved to meet the changing needs of the U.S. Army. What began as a storage depot has grown into a diversified defense resource known for its expertise in heavy combat vehicle maintenance, small arms weaponry, and locomotive repair. Today, ANAD serves as the U.S. Army’s Center of Industrial and Technical Excellence for combat vehicles (excluding Bradley), assault bridging, artillery, small caliber weapons, locomotives, rail equipment, and non-tactical generators.
As the largest employer in Calhoun County, ANAD plays a critical role not only in national defense, but also in the local and regional economy. Its mission is to deliver advanced re-manufacturing, reclamation, and deployable sustainment maintenance capabilities that ensure global readiness — a responsibility that has earned it the nickname, “Pit Crew of the American War fighter.”
Mayor Smith-Roston said the visit was an important opportunity to further strengthen ties between the City of Anniston, Alabama, and one of its most important institutional partners.
“Anniston Army Depot is a cornerstone of our community and a source of tremendous pride for our city,”
Said Mayor Ciara Smith-Roston.
“The work being done there has an impact that stretches far beyond Anniston, while also driving economic opportunity here at home. I am grateful for the opportunity to tour the facility, learn more about its operations, and continue building upon the strong relationship between the City of Anniston and ANAD.”
Col. Charles Moore, commander of Anniston Army Depot, said the visit highlighted both the depot’s mission and its longstanding connection to the community.
“We were honored to welcome the Mayor of Anniston for a tour of Anniston Army Depot,” said Col. Charles Moore, Anniston Army Depot commander. “The visit provided a valuable opportunity to highlight our mission, our people, and the critical role we play in supporting the readiness of our nation’s war fighters. It also reinforced the strong partnership we share with the city of Anniston and the surrounding community. We remain committed to fostering those strong relationships and working together to support economic growth and workforce development.”
The City of Anniston values its longstanding partnership with Anniston Army Depot and recognizes the installation’s continued importance to the strength, resilience, and future of the community.
