Rear Adm. John C. “Jack” Scorby, Jr

More than 900 people attended the Military Appreciation Luncheon hosted by the JAX Chamber Monday at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. A Chamber tradition, the annual luncheon brings the business community together to honor the brave men and women from all branches of the local military community, including active duty, reservists, veterans and their families.

Rear Adm. John C. “Jack” Scorby, Jr., commander, Navy Region Southeast, was the event’s keynote speaker. He spoke about what the Navy is doing to conserve energy and water resources, how they are working with the communities outside the fence line to strike a balance of compatible land use and their need for the judicious use of resources.

The 125th Fighter Wing of the Florida Air National Guard based at Jacksonville International Airport presented colors, and Navy Region Southeast Band performed during the event. Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown also spoke, thanking the military for the outstanding service to its country and the community.

The Chamber hosts the annual luncheon not only to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by military personnel but also to honor the military’s presence in the community and its impact on the local economy.

“It is important that we come together and show our appreciation and gratitude for their contributions, because the military community is truly at the core of our region’s success,” said Wally Lee, president of the JAX Chamber.

Northeast Florida’s military installations have a combined total of more than $14.2 billion in annual regional economic impact, employ more than 46,000 people and account for more than 250,000 residents living in the region between active duty, reserves and retired veterans.

All of us at WhatsUpJacksonville.com are very proud of our military and appreciate all that they do for the community.