The Aurora Chamber of Commerce’s Defense Council held its 48th Annual Armed Forces Recognition Luncheon on Friday, May 10, 2024 – to honor military serving in the Metro area. Awards were given to 11 military members from each branch of service, including Reserve and Guard components, and a civilian from the community.
“This luncheon is our way of recognizing members of the armed forces – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard – throughout Northern Colorado including the Denver-Aurora area,” said Chamber President and CEO Naomi Colwell. “They make a significant contribution to our community and to our nation.”
This year’s keynote speaker was former U.S. Navy Seal, Captain Michael P. Argo, who served for three decades to include fighting in combat, and as Commander and Commanding Officer of four separate commands, worked on three Joint Commands, and deployed to Europe, Africa, South America, the Caribbean, South Korea, Southwest Asia, and Center Asia. Argo served on Seal Team Two, Seal Delivery Team Two, and Special Boat Team Twenty. He also was the Navy Reserve Center Commander on Buckley from 2002 to 2004.
Rick Crandall, executive director of the Colorado Freedom Memorial, was the Master of Ceremonies for the 19th consecutive year, and CSU Global was the title sponsor for the event.
“This event would not be possible without the tremendous support we receive each year from our community,” said Jim Puscian, chair of the Chamber’s Defense Council. “This is an opportunity for the civilian community to say thank you to the men and women in uniform for their service and sacrifice.”
The Award Winners, left to right, and their sponsors (listed below):
