BATTLE CREEK, Mich. –
Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee hosted the 66th Annual Armed Forces Appreciation Luncheon at Firekeepers Casino and Hotel in Battle Creek, Michigan, May 13, after a two-year pandemic hiatus.
As a token of gratitude, the committee recognizes local military personnel and federal employees who significantly impacted their branch or agency that year. Additionally,
it’s a partnership opportunity for the chamber, local businesses, military, and federal agencies.
“We promote community awareness of the scope, mission, and positive economic and social impact of the local military installations,” said Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce President Kara Beer. “We recognize military members, federal employees, and their families, through events like the Armed Forces Appreciation Luncheon.”
Sixteen individuals received awards ranging from the U.S. Army Gen. Omar N. Bradley Service Award, Veterans Affairs Service Award, Duane E. Dewey Award, and the Hart-Dole-Inouye Award. Six of those awards went to HDIFC employees for their 2021 and 2022 contributions.
“As a community, we will always continue to honor and recognize those who wear the cloth of our nation… [As a community] this is our sacred honor and our duty,” said Battle Creek Military Affairs Committee Chair and retired U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. T.R. Shaw Jr. “The Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center continues to support the warfighter through several commands that directly support, engage, and supply critical logistics around the world.”
Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services Director Mike Cannon and Shaw presented DLA Disposition Services employees Craig Barrett and Michael Rose with HDI Awards for their excellent work and dedication to the agency and the warfighter.
Barrett’s citation read, “Mr. Barrett’s relationship to the warfighter is long and distinguished, beginning with his own service as a United States Marine, and upon retirement, continuing his service as a DLA Department of Defense civilian. After a variety of challenging and successful assignments, Craig was chosen to serve as the Deputy Director of DSD-Central. Most recently, in 2021, Mr. Barrett again supported the warfighter and provided direct oversight to the DLA mission in Afghanistan.”
Other HDI awardees included Ryan Lambert and Stephen Albers from DLA Installation Management, and Robert Koenig and Christine Sineath from DLA Logistics Information Services.
Shaw ended with, “I would like to thank all of those who are here in uniform, this is your day. Thank you to those who serve and sacrifice, and also thank you to the families here today who support those who serve and don’t always get the credit they deserve. You’re a big part of what we do, thank you.