The Mobile Room, along with its military committee, held the 38th Military Viewing Lunch at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park to honor both current and past military leaders, as well as rising stars. The event was announced with the support of Columbia Southern University.
Bradley Byrne, the President and CEO of the Mobile Chamber, expressed gratitude for the military’s ongoing contributions and acknowledged the young cadets’ roles. He mentioned that it’s a special opportunity to celebrate the individuals who are making a difference both locally and internationally.
The gathering also focused on recognizing how the military impacts the local business scene, highlighting outstanding members from the Armed Services, ROTC, and JROTC programs.
Major Awards and Winners
Major General Janet L. Cobb, United States (ret.) received the Ganary Cooper Outstanding Service Award. Over her 42-year military career, she made significant contributions to civic leadership. A distinguished graduate of the University of Alabama’s ROTC program, she was the first female officer from the university and played critical roles in logistics and transportation during missions in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the Netherlands. After retiring in 2016, she became the executive director of the USS Alabama Battleship Commission and has obtained a Juris Doctorate from Cumberland Law School along with a Masters in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College.
Boat Wayne’s first class Break A. Westforce, USCG was honored with the U.S. Navy League Hugh M. Caste Award. He was recognized for his courageous actions when he observed his mother and two children in distress at Mobile Bay. Without a moment’s hesitation, he acted to save them, ensuring that all received medical assistance. His bravery reflects the core values of honor and dedication within the U.S. Coast Guard.
Cadet Karebu Cooper was named Cadet of the Year for the South Alabama Army ROTC, while Cadet Lucas Madden received the South Alabama Air Force ROTC Cadet of the Year Award.
Junior ROTC Cadet Recognition
Exceptional JROTC cadets from local high schools were also acknowledged.
– Axel Academy: Cadet Darian Cario
– Baker High School: Cadet Keaton Campbell
– High School Scope: Cadet Harmonee Phelon
– Bryant High School: Cadet Hannah D. Watson
– Chickasaw High School: Cadet Isabelle Smith
– Citronelle High School: Cadet Zoeback
– Davidson High School: Cadet Aiden Ezel
– Leflore High School: Cadet Jaireen Brandon
– Montgomery High School: Cadet Jordan B. Vertrees
– Murphy High School: Officer Mercedes English
– Rain High School: Cadet Garmiya Puchi
– Saraland High School: Cadet Orion Halagean
– Satsuma High School: Cadet Hannah Rohe
– Theodore High School: Cadet Jacob Oliver
– Vigor High School: Cadet Kelsey M. Ellis
– Williamson High School: Cadet Cassius
Retired US Navy Commander Mark K. Fields, who is now the executive director of USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, served as the keynote speaker at the event.
