TYLER, Texas – The Tyler Chamber of Commerce showed its gratitude to local veterans on Saturday with a free lunch, gift bags and a formal ceremony. Erin Whitney, co‑chair of the chamber’s veterans committee and a retired Army lieutenant colonel, highlighted the importance of recognizing those who have served, whether for three years or three decades.
Event details
The celebration began at 1 p.m. with a musical performance by Men in Harmony, followed by a guest speaker and a salute to the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Volunteers and several local businesses helped organize the program, fundraise, assemble the gift bags and recruit volunteers.
Community support
Local community members contributed the gift bags, while the main sponsor was the Soros Law Firm. Whitney said the community’s involvement sends a powerful message to veterans that their sacrifices are not forgotten.
Whitney’s perspective
Whitney, who served 21½ years in the Army, shared personal reflections on military life. “There are no off days, no 9‑to‑5 schedule,” she said. “You miss birthdays, you miss events, but the camaraderie and purpose keep us going.” She recalled favorite memories as a platoon leader, including running a training range and later coordinating a multilateral event in Cambodia, where she learned about different cultures and upbringings.
Call to action
Beyond the ceremony, Whitney encouraged veterans to stay active in their communities and urged local businesses to consider hiring veterans, noting that they bring valuable skills, discipline and a strong work ethic. She described the experience of thanking fellow veterans as humbling and expressed hope that the event would inspire ongoing support.
Looking ahead
The Chamber plans to make the veteran appreciation event an annual tradition, aiming to expand participation and deepen partnerships with local sponsors. By highlighting the contributions of service members, the Chamber hopes to strengthen the bond between veterans, businesses and the broader Tyler community.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
