BOSSIER CITY, La. The Bossier Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, will host Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs Charlton J. Meginley for its Military Leadership Luncheon in September.
The event is designed to connect the Shreveport-Bossier business community with military leaders and provide information on ways local businesses can support and partner with the military community.
Meginley, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, is expected to discuss his work as secretary and highlight opportunities for businesses to better serve active-duty service members, veterans and their families.
Representatives from local organizations that work with the military community also will attend to share information and build connections with area businesses.
“Our goal is to cultivate awareness of our military’s mission and how our community can enhance support for the men and women of Barksdale Air Force Base, our local reserve and guard units, their families and our veterans,” said Lisa Johnson, president and CEO of the Bossier Chamber.
Meginley oversees the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, managing a $90 million budget and approximately 850 employees statewide. Appointed by Gov. Jeff Landry, he is responsible for the operation of five state veterans homes, five state veterans cemeteries, 74 veterans service offices and 32 college and university student veteran centers. The department also administers programs including the Military Family Assistance Fund, the Veterans Honor Medal Program and outreach initiatives focused on veteran employment, suicide prevention and services for homeless, incarcerated and women veterans, as well as Gold Star families.
Tickets for the luncheon are available through the Bossier Chamber. The event is presented by the Louisiana Association for the Blind and supported by Live! Casino & Hotel and the Cyber Innovation Center. Platinum sponsors include Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Brentwood Hospital and Willis Knighton Health.