Fort Polk Progress held it annual Community Briefing and Military Appreciation Banquet yesterday in Leesville with a host of veterans, military and community leaders in attendance from the parishes surrounding Fort Polk.
The event was hosted by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce with Chairman Robert Haymon welcoming those in attendance.
Merchants and Farmers Bank was the presenting sponsor of the event. CEO Luke Brandon spoke of community support for our military and their families.
FPP Chairman Logan Morris started the community update with the scope of work done by the organization over the last year. Other updates were given by Sen. Mike Reese, Rep. Chuck Owen, Rep. Rodney Schamerhorn; and Ben Shultz and Jakob Johnson from The Roosevelt Group.
MG Jason A. Curl also spoke on the projects that are occurring at Fort Polk and the strong partnerships from the surrounding communities.
“Fort Polk’s strength has always depended on more than what happens inside the gates. Our responsibility at Fort Polk Progress is to bring together community, state and federal partners to remove barriers, strengthen support for soldiers and families, and position Fort Polk for future mission growth. We want the Army to see Fort Polk not only as an indispensable training installation, but as a community fully prepared to support its people and its future.” said FPP Chairman Logan Morris.
Outgoing Hornbeck Mayor Clarence Beebe and board member was recognized for his almost 20 years of service to the organization.
Other community sponsors of the event were BECHTEL, Diamond Real Estate, the SWLA Alliance, England Economic and Industrial Development District, the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce, LA Land and Title, AMERISAFE, Phoenix Home Medical, Central Louisiana Regional Port, CLECO, First United Pentecostal Church of Leesville, Howard Lewing Construction, Cruise Planners and Global Wanderers, Hickory Smokehouse and Mockler Beverage.