More than 200 guests joined the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce for our annual Command Reception. This Chamber event has been hosted for over 45 years as an opportunity for military leaders to network with business members from throughout the Alamo region. Prior to joint basing, the event served as a vital connection between the geographically separated military missions who called San Antonio home.
Now more than ever, the business community looks to this event to mix and mingle with representatives from all the branches of service in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. It is also a great opportunity to reconnect and establish important relationships that serve to support the military missions while also showing support for military families.
In addition to Chamber business members and uniformed personnel and spouses, local elected representatives gathered at the beautiful San Antonio Botanical Garden to show why we are called “Military City USA.” After a summer of heavy transition for military commanders and senior enlisted leaders, this event was timely in making sure the new command teams felt welcomed and appreciated.
Opening Remarks were provided by USAA’s new Property and Casualty Division President Randy Termeer, who also serves as an Honorary Commander for the 37th Training Wing at JBSA-Lackland. Termeer introduced San Antonio’s Mayor Ron Nirenberg, who spoke on the rich history of the military in San Antonio and reflected on ways the city is working toward uplifting the valuable military missions well into the future. Guests also heard from:
- Lieutenant General Brian Robinson, Commander, Air Education and Training Command;
- Major General Robert Whittle, Deputy Commanding General, Operations, United States Army North (Fifth Army); and
- Captain Shannon Johnson, Deputy Commander, Naval Medical Forces Support Command, representing our Sea Service Mission Partners
“We extend our thanks again to all our military leaders for the great work you do daily, keeping our nation safe. We can’t thank you enough,” said Richard Perez, San Antonio Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, during his closing remarks. “We at the Chamber and in the community are committed to continuing our support for all your missions and supporting your families who serve alongside you.”
Click here to view photos from the event.
The Chamber is honored to support San Antonio’s military partners year-round. The next opportunity for you to become involved in these efforts is during November’s annual Celebrate America’s Military events. More information can be found here: http://www.celebrateamericasmilitary.com/.