By Betty Boyd, Military Affairs Committee
We are pleased to once again interview JD Daniels, the Chairman of the Military Affairs Committee (MAC), who is responsible for the inception of MAC Night Out. One of the key reasons to have this event was to say a big “THANK YOU” to our active-duty members both at Nellis and Creech Air Force bases.
A lot of the MAC members have helped retiring veterans, those who have unique challenges that need special attention or transitioning into finding jobs.
This was a way to say “thank you” to our active-duty members serving our country in the Southern Nevada area. The approach was to expand what the Air Force was doing, on handing out their annual awards to the different ranks. The MAC wanted to recognize these awardees in the community for the great work that they are doing.
Simultaneously through MAC Night Out, the committee recognizes Vegas chamber businesses including small and large businesses doing incredible things for veteran spouses and their families. This event provides an opportunity for the business’s leadership, commanders, families, and awardees to get to know each other.
These businesses on a regular basis don’t always interact with the Air Force because of the culture of what they are dealing with. MAC realized that as soon as the awardees and their biographies were presented, the companies who were participating in the event were hiring them.
The first year that MAC Night Out was held, Daniels’s employer made sure that they [who? veterans?] were hired on the spot. This sent a powerful message that it is all about jobs! This helps to solve a lot of problems once the veteran knows there is a job waiting for them once they retire or transition out.
This is a key event for the Vegas Chamber supported by the Board of Trustees. It’s to show appreciation between participating businesses and the bases coming together as one. Ret. General Rob Notvony is a member of the Board of Trustees, and this elevated the importance of this event.
Daniels states, “it’s just fun.” These young people are being recognized for their achievements, they get to put on civilian clothes, have pictures taken, everyone is congratulating them, and they get to stand on a stage, and receive some nice gifts.”
MAC Night Outputs these active-duty military members at the center, and to show them they are appreciated for the sacrifices they are making for, not only the country but their families.
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