The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce hosted our annual Celebrate America’s Military highlight event, the Spirit of America Dinner, at the Marriot Rivercenter Hotel on November 10. Nearly 650 Chamber business members, community partners, and service men and women from across all of the branches of the military attended this special tribute to their dedication and service to our nation.
The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Reserve and National Guard were all represented, as well as civilian employees who serve within the Joint Base San Antonio footprint. The event was free of charge to our Active Duty, Guard and Reserve members along with a guest, with special thanks to the generosity of our many sponsors. The event kicked off with an amazing feat of skill and discipline by the John Jay High School Air Force Junior ROTC Armed Drill Team, the Silver Eagles.
The keynote speaker, General Lori Robinson, Commander of the United States Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), gave a patriotic and inspiring speech highlighting the sacrifices of our military men and women. Her speech also addressed the importance of a connected community of support and advocacy. Robinson congratulated San Antonio on the strong bond and relationship with its military neighbors.
The last surviving member of Doolittle Raiders, Lt. Col (retired) Dick Cole attended the event. In addition, Medal of Honor recipient MG (retired) Patrick Brady attended along with a host of Gold Star wives, mothers and fathers.
Walmart was on hand, in its 12th consecutive year of sponsoring CAM festivities, to present their “Greenlight a Vet” initiative by providing green light bulbs to everyone in attendance in order to shine a light on the great impact that veterans provide to our community, both while in uniform and while transitioning out of uniform. They also announced the Walmart Foundation participation with Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) to bring TXServes to San Antonio. This program will be integral in assisting our transitioning service members and keeping them in our great City. Finally, the USAA Band and Choir provided the patriotic music and a rousing rendition of the Service Medley to round out the evening.
The Chamber is grateful for our business members, sponsors and volunteers who help us to propel business success in the San Antonio community. Your help also allows us to strengthen our ties with our military partners whom we all owe for their sacrifices.