Created after the state came perilously close to seeing the Naval Submarine Base in Groton closed, the Office of Military Affairs has proven to be a solid investment. And Robert T. Ross of Salem has proven to be a quality, nonpartisan choice to head the small office with big influence.

Last week Gov. Dannel P, Malloy announced the reappointment of Mr. Ross as executive director of the OMA, which is part of the Department of Economic and Community Development. The General Assembly must approve the reappointment. In this case, that appears perfunctory.

Mr. Ross has steered clear of politics and focused on his job of advocating for defense industries in the state; coordinating efforts to improve the prospects of the submarine base surviving future closure threats; serving as a liaison to the Connecticut congressional delegation in Washington on defense and military issues; and supporting the state's military families.

This may help explain why a Republican governor, M. Jodi Rell, initially appointed Mr. Ross in July 2009 and why a Democrat, Gov. Malloy, has now twice reappointed him.

The office costs the state about $183,000 annually. Mr. Ross, as the sole employee, receives a salary of approximately $103,000, though he and other Malloy administration officials will be receiving raises.

Mr. Ross has helped coordinate unprecedented state investment in the submarine base, about $14 million to improve energy efficiency and redundancy at the base, upgrade training facilities, and enhance the operational buffer zone around the facility. These efforts improve the military value and demonstrate state commitment; steps that should help it withstand future rounds of base closings.

The OMA director works with military officials, local education administrators and service agencies to minimize the challenges military families face during relocations. Mr. Ross has played a key role in a series of legislative successes in Washington that have solidified the state's defense industries, including Electric Boat. In addition, Mr. Ross oversaw the Deep Water Port Study that should lead to better utilization of those maritime assets, including here in New London.

Finally, Mr. Ross has been an effective state coordinator in the effort to bring the National Coast Guard Museum to New London.

It is good to learn that this Navy veteran, who once piloted aircraft carriers and missile cruisers, will continue to guide this critical office.