Wednesday November 5th, the New Port Richey Rotary Club proudly hosted a special event to honor our current and past service members. The gathering was a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who have served our nation, and it brought together community leaders, veterans, and supporters in a spirit of gratitude and respect.
Congressman Gus Bilirakis was in attendance, continuing his long-standing commitment to recognizing
local heroes and advocating for veterans. His presence underscored the importance of community support for those who have served.
The event also welcomed several distinguished local leaders, including:
- Police Chief Robert Kochen, who has led the New Port Richey Police Department since January 2023 and brings decades of law enforcement experience to our city.
- Fire Chief Chris Fitch, who heads the New Port Richey Fire and Emergency Services Department and has been instrumental in advancing safety initiatives, including the city’s new fire station project.
We were especially honored to have five World War II veterans in attendance true heroes whose service and sacrifice continue to inspire generations.
We also extend a special thank you to our CEO, Bill Rutherford, a proud New Port Richey Rotary member, for initiating this meaningful event. His leadership and commitment to service made this celebration possible.
The luncheon served as a reminder of the Rotary’s ongoing mission to support veterans and foster community engagement. Attendees shared stories, expressed gratitude, and reaffirmed their commitment to service values that lie at the heart of Rotary International.
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