The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 Military Affairs Rise N Shine on Thursday at Albany State University’s West Campus, bringing together civic leaders, military leadership and personnel, and members of the community to highlight the longstanding partnership between the Albany area and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. This year’s event marked the highest attendance since 2019, reflecting the community’s continued investment in and support of its military partnership.

The annual breakfast offered a mix of celebration, insight, and recognition. The event opened with a presentation of the colors by the Albany Young Marines, who were recently named the National Young Marines Unit of the Year. The group received a special award from the Office of U.S. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., recognizing their achievement and leadership.

Attendees heard welcoming remarks from Smith Wilson, chair of the Albany Area Chamber Board of Directors, who spoke about the role the base plays not only in national defense but in local workforce development and economic growth. Wilson noted that events like Rise N Shine offer an important opportunity to express appreciation and strengthen community connections.

The morning included two panel discussions. The first, moderated by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Don Gray, focused on community integration and featured panelists Chris Hatcher of 4C Academy, Terri Christian of AB&T, and retired Marine Lt. Col. Manwiller. The panelists shared experiences that highlighted how partnerships across education, business, and personal engagement help create a welcoming environment for service members and their families.

The second panel, moderated by Col. (Ret.) Dan Gillan, featured Colonel Matthew McKinney, commanding officer of MCLB Albany; Major General Keith Reventlow, commanding general of Marine Corps Logistics Command; Major Charles Thompson of the U.S. Army National Guard; and First Sergeant Paul Alejo of the Marine Corps Reserves. The conversation covered operational updates, recent accomplishments, and how cross-branch coordination and innovation are helping shape the future of national logistics readiness. MCLB Albany, one of only two Marine Corps logistics bases in the country, continues to be recognized nationally for its energy leadership and commitment to sustainability.

The Albany Area Chamber, in partnership with MCLB Albany and LOGCOM, proudly recognized eleven service members for their outstanding dedication and leadership. These honorees were selected by their commands for exemplary performance in roles that support mission readiness, innovation, and community service. The Marines and Sailors recognized during the program included Corporal Leroy Hubbert, Lance Corporal Patrick Dunn, Corporal Ian Schillinger, Lance Corporal Derek Edegbe, HM2 Brian Macias, HM1 Roy Lightner, Corporal Jack L. Sotherland IV, Sergeant Nathalia K. Martinez, Private First Class Irvin Z. Mott, Sergeant Elijah D. Smith, and Sergeant Mirthaly S. Quintanilla. Each awardee reflects the excellence and commitment of the military men and women who serve at MCLB Albany and contribute to the strength of both our nation and our local community.

The 2025 Rise N Shine was presented by Georgia Power, with additional support from Albany State University, Albany Technical College, RHC Inc., Dougherty County Government, Albany- Dougherty Economic Development Commission, Procter & Gamble, Navy Federal Credit Union, and Molson Coors.

The event is coordinated annually by the Albany Area Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee, the organization’s longest-standing volunteer group, which works to connect military leaders with community partners and strengthen military-family support. “Our Marines and Sailors play a vital role in defending this nation, and they do it from right here in Albany. With more than 3,000 personnel and a $1.5 billion economic impact, MCLB Albany isn’t just a military base, it’s a cornerstone of our community. We’re proud to support the people behind the mission, and we take seriously our responsibility to stand with them, their families, and their futures,” remarked Smith Wilson, Chair of the Board of Directors, Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. “This partnership reflects who we are as a community: united, invested, and committed to service.”

For more information about the Albany Area Chamber and its Military Affairs Committee, visit www.albanyga.com.