An Open Letter to the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce and The First Coast for the 2009 Military Appreciation Luncheon
November 10, 2009

Dear Friends,

Greetings, Shipmates, hope this note finds you doing well. My recall to U.S. Central Command headquarters is going well and I'm on my fifth trip to the theater, currently leading a logistics team to work with our friends in Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.

I'm especially sorry I’ll miss this year’s Military Appreciation Luncheon…not to be thanked by you and the community, but to say “Thank you” back.

You already know that I’m so fortunate to be serving with genuine American heroes—selfless, dedicated men and women who define the term “Patriot” and are working their hardest to ensure America’s success. The experience is humbling, yes, exhausting, but most of all, inspiring.

We can’t let down our young men and women serving us, and that’s where you, our Shipmates in the Chamber, and the Jacksonville community at large, simply shine. I’ve discovered so few of the service members I’m working with can talk about the exceptional support they and their families are getting back home. I knew my adopted hometown was unique, but, especially when I’m in theater, I feel especially blessed. My family will be fine…because I’m from Jacksonville.

So while the luncheon will rightly be focused on those patriots sitting with you, take just a moment to pat yourselves on the back. The support and peace of mind you’ve given the Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, Coast Guardsmen, and Merchant Mariners who call The First Coast home is truly priceless. Thank you for being there…when we can’t be.

Have a great luncheon celebrating America and those who keep her free. Take care and all the best—GBA, Steve Kaufman, CDR, USN, Joint Transportation Officer & President, SJKPR.