Murkowski Announces General Mattis to Deliver Keynote at Military Appreciation Event in Fairbanks
U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) today announced retired Marine Corps four-star General and former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis as her guest of honor to deliver the keynote address at the 2022 Military Appreciation Banquet being hosted by the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce, on Saturday, June 11.
“I’m very pleased to announce that General Jim Mattis will be my guest of honor at this year’s Military Appreciation Banquet in Fairbanks,” Senator Murkowski said. “General Mattis is a living legend, one of the most revered Marines of our time, and a true American hero. Few have been a better partner for Alaska over the course of decades or know more about our state’s critical role in America’s defense. I can’t think of a better keynote speaker to join us as we show our appreciation to the exemplary servicemembers stationed throughout Interior Alaska.”
“Since 2011, Senator Murkowski has served as the honorary host for the evening, inviting strategic and influential military dignitaries to join her. We are incredibly grateful to Senator Murkowski for her continued support of the Chamber’s military appreciation banquet,” said Lisa Herbert, co-chair of the banquet planning committee. “What an incredible opportunity for the Golden Heart community to hear from someone as esteemed as General Mattis.”
Background:
The Military Appreciation Banquet in Fairbanks began 52 years ago as an at-home dinner hosted by Jim and Rosemary Messer to honor military members. Since its inception, the banquet has grown into a major annual event which typically draws more than 600 people in support of military members who serve in Interior Alaska and their families.
As a staunch advocate for our military and their families, Murkowski has spoken at the event on multiple occasions. As the senior Senator for Alaska, she is proud to have the responsibility of inviting a guest of honor to serve as the keynote speaker.
