On August 12, the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce hosted a Military Recognition Reception at 3pm at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott to honor the hardworking men and women of the military.  One hundred twenty-two military personnel from local commands were honored at the event.  The honorees were joined at the reception by their families, military leadership, elected officials, and businessmen and women from the region.

RDML Walter E. Carter, Commander of U.S. Joint Forces Command’s Enabling Capabilities Command, provided remarks.  RDML Carter stressed the importance of “trust” and “respect.”  He congratulated the honorees and said, “We thank you for what you do.”  He asked those in attendance to keep the service members who are on the front lines in our thoughts adding that their efforts allow us to enjoy our freedom.

The event’s keynote speaker was Wendy Larry, head coach of the Old Dominion University women’s basketball program.  Larry began her inspiring speech by exclaiming, “I am the proud daughter of a Marine!”  She said, “I would like to personally thank all of you on behalf of myself, Hampton Roads and a proud nation.”  Larry added, “I am here today to honor those who’ve gone above and beyond.”  She tells her basketball players that “cream rises to the top,” and that the same is true for the military honorees at the reception.  “You are special.  You’ve separated yourselves,” she said.   

The Chamber holds Military Recognition Receptions twice a year because the military are such an important part of our region. The Chamber has been recognizing the accomplishments of the military at this reception for more than 15 years. 

Many thanks to sponsors: City of Norfolk (Gold); Norfolk Waterside Marriott (Hospitality); GEICO (Gold Military Program Partner); Cox Communications (Media); Bank of America, First Command, Lockheed Martin, and Strayer University (Silver Military Program Partners); G4S Secure Solutions USA, Regent University and Saint Leo University (Bronze Military Program Partners); City of Virginia Beach, USAA and USA Discounters (Silver); and Norfolk State University, Northrop Grumman Corp., Virginia Beach Convention Center & Distinctive Gourmet, and VSA Resorts, LLC (Bronze). 

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