COLUMBUS, Miss - The American Power Source Factory in Columbus was in full swing as workers sewed the new workout uniforms to be worn by military personnel across the country.

Just months ago the company had to reduce its number of employees, but with an order for 30-thousand items, American Power Source can keep its doors open while adding more jobs.

According to Operations Manager Kathy Griffith, "We had reduced our work force and now we have 95 people, and now we've added 20 people just on this item."

In a time when most garment contracts are leaving the country, these uniforms will be sporting "Made in the USA" tags. Due to the contract, American Power Source can keep workers employed for at least another year, not to mention the 20 new employees they had to hire because of the work load. But if the contract had come any later, some would have been looking for jobs right before the holiday season.

Three year employee Terisa Webber says, "I would have been laid off. I am so glad we got this contract and we're trying our best to hold on to it. I've got a daughter in college and a son in high school and you know how expensive they are.  So it's a blessing."

Due to the new design and material, military personnel say they are looking forward to the new clothing.

CAFB Base Commander Colonel Roger Watkins says, "The bottom line up front is they are going to have a more comfortable, more durable, physical training uniform."

"Right away when I put it on I noticed I liked it better. It's less baggy, more light weight ; doesn't swoosh when I move around in it. Overall it's lighter and feels more comfortable. I can tell I'm really going to enjoy working out in it," says 2nd Lt. Joseph Castro.

Columbus Air Force Base had no part in choosing the local company. All military clothing items are subject to a bid to receive the best prices.