American Apparel will keep 100 people employed for the next five years, thanks to a $39 million contract from the U.S. Navy.

According to the contract, American Apparel will produce all-weather coats for the U.S. Navy. One of several government contracts American Apparel has procured since the start of the War on Terrorism, the contract means the AA plant in Centre will produce the coats immediately.

The contract was awarded by the Defense Supply Center in Philadelphia. Production will last at least five years, according to American Apparel.

In a press release issued earlier this week, AA President Rick Cippele credits the hard work of his employees for the company’s success.

“This award confirms American Apparel’s leadership position in the industry,” the release said.

American Apparel is the leading clothing manufacturer for the U.S. Military. This contract is completely new to American Apparel.

American Apparel operates six plants in Alabama, employing 1,200.

To apply for work at American Apparel, contact the local Alabama State Employment Service at 872-0471.

Last year, the Department of Defense spent over $64 million in Dallas County, with a

sizable portion of the money going to AA for clothing production.

Globe Amerada Architectural Glass is another company benefiting from military contracts in the area. GAAG produces bullet-resistant glass for humvees used in Iraq and all over the world.

The U.S. Army awarded Dallas County $10 million. The Corps of Engineers awarded the county $111,720 and the Defense Logistics Agency awarded $54 million.

The U.S. Navy didn’t award any contracts in Dallas County last year.