MOBILE, Ala. – The Mobile Chamber and its Military Affairs Committee honored retired, active-duty and future military leaders during the 39th Annual Military Appreciation Luncheon presented by Keesler Federal Credit Union.

The annual event held at the USS ALABAMA Battleship memorial Park Aircraft Pavilion celebrates the impact of military personnel in the Mobile area and recognizes outstanding service members, educators and cadets.

“Honoring the men and women who serve our country is one of the greatest privileges we have as a business community,” said Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne. “We’re also proud to recognize the educators and young leaders who are helping shape the next generation of military service and leadership.”

The keynote speaker for the event was Lt. Gen. David S. Fadok, USAF (Ret.), former Commander and President of Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base.

General Gary Cooper Outstanding Service Award – Presented by Keesler Federal Credit Union
Col. Steve Carey, USAF (Ret.)

The General Gary Cooper Outstanding Service Award is presented to a current or former service member who exemplifies achievement, courage, excellence and humility.

The 2026 recipient, Col. Steve Carey, served more than 30 years in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot, flying F-15 missions including critical air superiority operations during the Gulf War. He later held leadership roles at Air University, helping shape doctrine and leadership development for airmen worldwide.

Following his military career, Carey became a successful Gulf Coast business owner and a dedicated advocate for veterans, education and youth development including his role as the President the Mobile Bay Area Veterans Commission. His continued service to the community reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership and impact.

Hugh M. Casteix Award
MK2 Donovan Clayton, USCG

Machinery Technician Second Class Donovan Clayton was recognized for exceptional leadership and technical expertise supporting multiple large-scale environmental response operations. His work included hazardous material mitigation and aerial reconnaissance missions that enhanced safety and operational decision-making.

Admiral J. Lloyd Abbot Award
CMM Nadia Morales, USN

Machinist Mate Chief Nadia Morales was honored for her leadership as LPD Ship Superintendent, overseeing the successful fueling and aviation readiness operations for LPD 30. Her coordination and risk management ensured safe execution of complex, high-stakes operations.

Air and Space Force Association Teachers of the Year
The Air & Space Force Association recognized four educators for their commitment to aerospace education and student development:

• Jennifer Asberry – Mobile County Elementary (Council Traditional School)
• Dr. Chelsea Tanous – Mobile County High (Davidson High School)
• Elizabeth Von Hofe – Baldwin County Elementary (Spanish Fort Elementary)
• Emily Hudson – Baldwin County High (Spanish Fort High School)

ROTC and JROTC Awards – Presented by Mobile Area Association of Realtors

University of South Alabama Air Force ROTC Cadet of the Year
Cadet Travis Greene

Mobile County JROTC Cadets Recognized:
Baker High School – Cadet Riddick Crow
Blount High School – Cadet VaShawnte McCants
Bryant High School – Cadet Trinity Marie Moore
Chickasaw High School – Cadet Ariel Mayegill
Citronelle High School – Cadet Jayden Yates
Davidson High School – Cadet Dominic Bringhurst
LeFlore High School – Cadet Angel Nicole Chambers
Montgomery High School – Cadet Joseph Smith
Murphy High School – Cadet Chrislin Seals
B.C. Rain High School – Cadet Nevaeh Gonsalves
Saraland High School – Cadet Mason Pinkstaff
Satsuma High School – Cadet Noah Boyington
Theodore High School – Cadet Oscar Hill
Vigor High School – Cadet Carlton Cannon
Williamson High School – Cadet Zamara Hudson

The Mobile Chamber thanked its sponsors for making the event possible, including Keesler Federal Credit Union, Mobile Area Association of Realtors, Canfor Southern Pine, Mobile Airport Authority, Bay Business News, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, The SSI Group and USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park.