NEW KENT COUNTY — The New Kent Chamber of Commerce recently honored more than 75 active-duty service men and women, veterans, first responders, health care providers, and their families and friends at its first annual Veterans Day luncheon.
“Honor and Valor: Heroes Among Us!” was held in celebration of Veterans Day on Monday, Nov. 11 at the Cousaic Manor on the shore of the Pamunkey River, according to the chamber.
The New Kent High School JROTC presented the colors, and Wayne Meade gave the invocation. Chamber Director of Membership Sam Drewry made introductory remarks and set the stage with a combat mission story of Maj. Thomas Howie, who was a 29th Infantry Division Soldier — the same division where many Virginia Army National Guard soldiers currently serve.
Andrew Warren, a senior leader at Dominion Energy, opened with “Earning the Title: what it means to be a Veteran.” Warren also told attendees about a newly-established group for veterans called the New Kent Veteran’s Group. Just six months old, it already has over 200 members, the chamber said.
Serving in the Marine Corps for 20 years, he said, “What distinguishes the American Military is that they raise a hand and swear an oath to volunteer their lives and service in defense of their nation.”
The keynote speaker was Peter Friedman, a retired naval submarine officer and UMass Dartmouth professor, discussing “Submarines: The Original Stealth Weapon.” Friedman covered the history of submarines, the mathematics involved, and, ultimately, their impact on military strategy.
“No one knows where a submarine is at any given time. They are truly defendable,” he said.
Lagenhennig Real Estate of Coldwell Banker Traditions and Events By Us Only were presented with membership plaques, and Rev. Milton Hathaway delivered the benediction.
The event was made possible through Chamber member sponsorships from Dominion Energy and Center Well. Early Bird Cafe and Bugle City Coffee provided free coffee before and during the event, and patriotic flower bouquets were donated by Flower Forte and presented to the speakers’ wives. Cousaic Manor and Events by Us Only provided their goods and services free or with discounts.
