Lt. Governor Dan Forest announced a plan that will position North Carolina as the country's most military-friendly state.

The plan is Forest's first major policy announcement in his 2020 campaign for governor.

"Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who sacrifice to defend our freedoms. In a day and age when we long for heroes, these are our real heroes," Forest said. "But sometimes, by the way they are treated, they don’t feel like heroes. Our state’s lack of attention in some key areas has damaged its reputation among the military."

Under a Forest administration, North Carolina will address these shortcomings. Forest's policy calls for progress in three key areas.

1) Supporting military families. Forest's policy calls for helping children of active-duty soldiers access high-quality education no matter when their families arrive in North Carolina.

2) Transitioning to civilian life. Forest's policy demonstrates North Carolina's commitment to welcoming servicemembers to the state as they exit active duty.

3) Building careers in North Carolina. Forest's policy would build new pathways for veterans to careers in law enforcement and high-demand occupations.