2nd Stryker Brigade: Hampton Deployment

Deployment took on a whole new meaning this past Thursday at our July Chamber Luncheon.  Our inagural "Host a Troop" event for the 2nd Stryker Brigade was a fun social setting where local businesses could interact and learn firsthand about the activities performed by Puyallup's military connector unit in Afghanistan this past year and how the military presence of troops stationed at JBLM impacts our local economy.  Of the soldiers present at the lunch, we learned that the majority of them lived off base, including in Puyallup and Sumner, which reinforces the message that JBLM is indeed an economic engine for our region.  There have even been reports that 1 in 6 jobs in Pierce County is somehow related to Joint Base Lewis McChord influence.  Attendees also learned that JBLM is considered a preferred base by many in the military because of climate, landscape, medical facilities and quality of life.  Also good for our local economy.  If you are not attending our Military Affairs Committee meetings or partnering with AUSA to interact with our local troops, you could be missing out on opportunities to grow your business and support our military.  The good news is that you can begin interacting with our military activities as soon as July 25th when the Chamber hosts it's Mornings with the Military event at the Old Cannery Furniture Warehouse from 8 to 9am.  Join us to learn how to sign your business up for opportunities to contract with the federal government, learn about what's happening at JBLM and what's coming up in the future.  A big thank you to Lt. Col. Richard Edwards who spoke at our luncheon, to Harborstone Credit Union for being such a passionate military sponsor, and to the Hampton Inn & Suites for providing the meeting space.