Dayton Area Chamber Honors Local Veterans

Patriotism and gratitude filled the air at the Dayton Valley Golf Club during the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce’s 8th Annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 9. The Veterans Dinner Committee welcomed more than 160 veterans, families, and community members to celebrate our hometown heroes.

This year’s event was one to remember, featuring a military honor guard, bagpiper, heartfelt guest speakers, and plenty of surprises for the honored service members.

The Comstock Lode Quilters wrapped each veteran in warmth and appreciation with handmade, personalized quilts, while Rick and Kathy Knight crafted branch-specific plaques for the veterans raffle. Additional gifts and goodies, provided by generous local sponsors, added even more cheer to the evening.

"The dinner gives us an opportunity as a community to recognize our veterans and their families and the sacrifice they made for our country,” noted Dayton Chamber President Chris Pattison in an official statement.

Veterans and their guests enjoyed a complimentary plated dinner, courtesy of Jim Kepler and the Dayton Valley Golf Club. Special guests and speakers included Mark Amodei (U.S. Army veteran and current U.S. Congressman), Ken Gray (U.S. Air Force veteran and senior adviser to the National Cemetery Administration), retired Army Col. Kim Scott LaBrie, plus Marty and Kelly Hagans of the Veterans Transition Resource Center. The evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Lyon County Commissioner John Cassinelli, kept the program lively and engaging.

The warmth in the room was undeniable — veterans shaking hands, friends sharing stories, and a community united in appreciation. The Dayton Area Chamber looks forward to continuing this cherished tradition, ensuring every veteran knows their service will never be forgotten.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors who contributed to the success of the 8th Annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner. Your generosity and creativity brought the evening to life,” the Dayton Area Chamber shared in a public thank-you message.

A special thank you goes to the teen volunteers – Veronika Egorava, Aria Lokey, Azalea Thorne, Silas Lokey, William Allison and Emily Allison – for their help serving meals and brightening the evening with their enthusiasm.