The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 Military Affairs Rise N' Shine on Friday, July 17th at Sherwood Baptist Church, bringing together military leadership, elected officials, business leaders, and community members to celebrate the enduring partnership between Southwest Georgia and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany while commemorating the 250th Anniversary of America.

Presented by AT&T, this year's program honored the nation's rich military heritage and recognized the vital role that Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany and Marine Corps Logistics Command (LOGCOM) continue to play in supporting national defense and strengthening Southwest Georgia's economy.

The event featured two engaging discussions highlighting both local and national perspectives on military readiness and defense.

The State of the Base panel, moderated by Col. (Ret.) Dan Gillan, featured James L. Rubino Jr., Executive Deputy of Marine Corps Logistics Command, and Col. Stephen A. Ritchie, Commanding Officer of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. Together, they provided updates on mission readiness, workforce initiatives, operational priorities, and the critical role MCLB Albany continues to play in supporting the Marine Corps around the world.

The program also featured National Defense, Local Impact, a fireside chat moderated by Meredith M. Lozar, MHR, AFC®, Chief Impact Officer of Operation Homefront. Lozar, a nationally recognized leader in military and veteran family initiatives, led an engaging discussion with U.S. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. and U.S. Congressman Austin Scott. The conversation focused on national defense priorities, military investments, and the lasting economic and community impact of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany throughout Southwest Georgia.

The Chamber's Military Affairs Committee also recognized outstanding Marines and Sailors during a special awards presentation led by Dan Gillan and Don Gray. Selected by their commands for exemplary leadership, dedication, and service, these individuals represent the professionalism and excellence of the military personnel serving in Albany today.

"The partnership between this community and our military installation is built on decades of trust, service, and shared purpose," said Dan Gillan, Military Affairs Committee Coordinator and State of the Base Moderator. "As we celebrate America's 250th Anniversary, we also celebrate the men and women at MCLB Albany and LOGCOM whose daily commitment strengthens our national defense and our local community alike."

"Rise N' Shine is more than an annual event; it's a reflection of Albany's deep appreciation for those who serve," said Don Gray, Chair of the Albany Area Chamber's Military Affairs Committee. "This year's program reminded us that the strength of our nation depends not only on military readiness, but also on communities that stand beside their service members with pride and support."

"The relationship between Albany and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany is one of the strongest military-community partnerships in the nation," said Matt Reed, Interim President & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. "As we celebrate 250 years of America, we are reminded that the freedoms we enjoy today are made possible through the sacrifice and service of men and women who have answered the call to serve. We are honored to recognize that service and continue strengthening the connection between our military and community."

The Albany Area Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to Sherwood Baptist Church for hosting this year's event and to AT&T, the presenting sponsor, for its continued support of the military community.

The Chamber also recognizes the generous support of its Military Sponsors: Georgia Power, Albany Technical College, and Threadcraft Engineering, along with its Community Sponsors: City of Albany, Molson Coors, AB&T, Dougherty County School System, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia's Own Credit Union, Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, Dougherty County Commission, and The UPS Store.

The 2026 Military Affairs Rise N' Shine was coordinated by the Albany Area Chamber's Military Affairs Committee, the Chamber's longest-standing volunteer committee dedicated to supporting military personnel, their families, and the missions of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany and Marine Corps Logistics Command. The Chamber remains committed to strengthening the relationship between the military and the Albany community while honoring those who serve our nation.

For more information on the Chamber’s legislative priorities and advocacy efforts, visit www.albanyga.com.