Photo By Micheal Mink | Marine Lt. General Richard F. Natonski, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command,...... read more read more
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NORFOLK, Va. - Service members from the Hampton Roads area were recognized, Aug. 13, during the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Military Recognition Reception. The event, held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott, brings the business community and service members together to recognize selected Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and Marines who have gone the extra mile at their respective units. Five-hundred service members attended the event, of which 125 were honorees.
Marine Lt. Gen. Richard F. Natonski, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command, offered opening remarks. The Honorable William D. Sessoms, Jr., mayor, city of Virginia Beach, was the keynote speaker. Sessoms commented on being an avid supporter of the military, adding that he has the utmost deepest respect to those who have served, and continue to serve our great nation.
"These service members understand, undoubtedly, that service is not just a word, but a call to action and a way of life," said Michael Camden, chair of the Armed Forces Committee for the chamber. "They truly have gone above and beyond."
Each honoree received gift bags containing items from area businesses and a certificate recognizing their contribution. The Military Recognition Reception is held in the spring and fall each year.
"I just come to work every day and give everything I do a one hundred percent effort, and I'm very grateful to have been recognized," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Kimberly Husser, leading petty officer for the dngineering department administration division on the USS Carl Vinson. "I work with an awesome team of Sailors, and we're all here to serve and to do our part. I didn't join to do my job halfway; I joined to give it all I have while I'm here. It's easier to enjoy what you do that way."
Chamber members commented on the success of the event, adding that Oct. 7 is the MCCOY event, which recognizes the Military Citizen of the Year which will be held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. For entry form applications, visit the Chamber's Web site at www.hamptonroadschamber.com or http://bit.ly/s3CXO.
The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, primarily a business organization, aims to augment the local community by enhancing quality of life and economic prosperity. Because of the volume of military personnel in the region, Camden said the organization fully supports its men and women in uniform and hosts military appreciation events each year.
"Today we salute you, as we count on you to defend our freedom," said Sessoms. "We are grateful for all that you do; for your dedication to the security of our nation and for your commitment to making this country's military the best in the world. Thanks to you, America will remain free and strong."
Music for the event was performed by the U.S. fleet Forces Ceremonial Band, with the presentation of the Colors by Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek.
| Date Taken: | 08.13.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 08.19.2009 14:10 |
| Story ID: | 37711 |
| Location: | NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 437 |
| Downloads: | 291 |
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