Saturday, October 08, 2011

National City Chamber of Commerce Honors Local Sailors

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Raul Moreno Jr., Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Public Affairs

NATIONAL CITY, Calif. (NNS) -- The National City Chamber of Commerce held their 55th annual Salute to Navy luncheon, Oct. 5 at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center.

Started in 1957, the Salute to Navy is a National City tradition that honors the U.S. Navy Sailors and their families, bringing them together with civilians and elected officials.

National City Mayor Ron Morrison addressed the Sailors in attendance expressing his gratitude for their service.

"We've got 150 young men and women here today representing the thousands upon thousands that are a part of ... the greatest force for freedom and peace in this world," said Morrison. "So, on behalf of the city, I want to thank you and let you know how much you are appreciated."

Melyn Acasio, co-chairman of the Salute to Navy committee, talked about the service members who worked to reconstruct the nation after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11.

"Today is an opportunity to say 'thank you' to our Navy and to our beloved armed forces for helping us rebuild America," said Acasio.

Naval Base San Diego Commanding Officer Capt. Winton Smith presented Special Boat Operator 1st Class Troy Bacon with Naval Base San Diego's Sailor of the Year award and on behalf of the Sailors, thanked the committee for organizing the event.

"It is an honor and a privilege to be here," said Bacon, "You don't know how much it means for the Sailors who come back from deployment and integrate back into the city. It's really a warm gesture, and I thank you."

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