On Friday, November 13, 2020, the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce celebrated some of our community’s honorable veterans and veteran-friendly organizations at the second annual Veterans Appreciation event, presented by VyStar Credit Union. The event, held at Santa Fe College with proper COVID-19 precautions, was aimed to embody the Chamber’s continued gratitude and support for those who have served to preserve our freedoms, including those in the greater Gainesville community and worldwide.
“Today is about recognizing the men and women who serve and have served in the US Military, including our veterans, active-duty service members, guardsmen and reservists,” Chamber CEO Eric Godet said. “It is their service and sacrifice that protects our country and keeps us safe.”
Representatives from the VA Medical Center, Alachua County Veteran Services, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Santa Fe College Veterans Program, Rolling Thunder, as well as presenting sponsor VyStar Credit Union and Santa Fe College shared their appreciation and support for our community’s veterans.
“We cherish and value veterans throughout our institution and throughout the nation,” honor you for giving selflessly of yourselves,” Santa Fe College President Dr. Paul Broadie said. “We are deeply appreciative of the sacrifices you have made and the unwavering devotion to our country.”
The awards ceremony consisted of the following honorees:
- Veteran Educator Award – Maj. Dennis Wait, USMC (Gainesville High School)
- Veteran Academic Achievement – Christopher Goebel (VA Medical Center)
- Malcolm Randall Citizenship Award – John Lavelle (Haven Hospice)
- Impact Award – Michelle Howard
- Business supporting Veterans – Gainesville Harley Davidson/The Lytle Family
- Non-Profit Veteran Support Organizations – Korean War Veterans (Don Sherry)
The Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce wholeheartedly thanks our local veterans for their service. In addition, the Chamber thanks event sponsors VyStar Credit Union, Santa Fe College, Comfort Temp and Keith Watson Events.
