Jacksonville honors First Coast military

Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton said, "The military presence in Northeast Florida is the closest thing we have to a recession-proof industry and that's one of the reasons I believe our area won't suffer as much as other regions of our state. The fact is, about $12 billion of economic activity is generated by our military commands each year.

I want to thank the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce leadership and sponsor VyStar Credit Union for bringing us together to show our appreciation not just for the economic impact of our military community - but also to honor our Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard for their everyday service in the defense of our country.

Bass player MUC Vincent Burrell and drummer MU2 Oscar Munoz Narvaez of the Navy Band Southeast VIP Jazz Combo entertain guests prior to the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce Military Appreciation Luncheon.

We're a military-friendly city and we're proud of it. As we work our way through tough economic circumstances, it's important to celebrate what's going right. I'm told that Jacksonville is one of the most-requested duty stations in the Navy. And our large number of military retirees is a testament to the outstanding quality of life that we enjoy here on Florida's First Coast.

Another reason to celebrate is this week's announcement by the

Navy that its preferred homeport alternative for a single nuclear-powered aircraft carrier at Naval Station Mayport will reduce the risks to fleet resources in the event of natural disaster, man-made calamity or attack on other Navy ports," said Peyton.

After his speech, Peyton recognized many of the people who support Jacksonville's military installations.

NAS Jax Chaplain (Lt.) Thomas Bingol delivered the invocation at the "Tribute to Freedom: a salute to our military troops and families" luncheon presented by VyStar Credit Union and the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce Nov. 20 at the Hyatt Regency.

"As mayor, I've been fortunate to work with very capable U.S. senators, representatives and city counsel members when it comes to military affairs. I must also recognize our military liaison, Dan McCarthy, who has helped steer our community through some extraordinary times. Thanks in large part to his efforts, northeast Florida realized a net gain of 3,000 personnel through BRAC; Whitehouse Field land use issues were resolved; and ground was broken for a new VA cemetery. For his many years of leadership, as well as behind-the-scenes accomplishments, it is my pleasure to award the first Jacksonville Military Service Award to a great citizen - Dan McCarthy. This award will be given annually to the person who goes above and beyond to help make Jacksonville the most military-friendly city in America," concluded Peyton.

NAS Jacksonville Com-manding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. was one of many Navy personnel impressed by the luncheon.

"I'm honored by the tremendous turnout today. We have an excellent relationship with our community thanks to mutual respect and a commitment to contribute positively to our quality of life. I was also pleased to see Dan McCarthy recognized for his many years of exemplary service."

Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton presented the city's first military service award to Dan McCarthy in recognition of his many years working as a liaison with local and federal agencies, as well as citizens' groups.

NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. and Dan McCarthy discuss the recently released MMA Environmental Impact Statement concerning the new P-8 aircraft.