06/02/2026
On Tuesday, May 19, the Virginia Peninsula Chamber hosted its second biennial State of the Military event at the Fort Eustis Club on Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Newport News. The program provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of the significant impact military installations have on the Peninsula’s economy, workforce, culture, and overall quality of life.
With every branch of the U.S. military represented throughout the region, the Virginia Peninsula benefits from a unique environment shaped by service, leadership, innovation, and mission readiness. The event highlighted the military’s vital role in driving economic growth, developing the future workforce, advancing technology and research, and fostering the partnerships that make the Virginia Peninsula one of the nation’s most important military and defense communities.
The program opened with remarks from Kathleen Jabs, Chair of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber Military Affairs Council and a retired U.S. Navy Captain. Jabs welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of the strong relationship between the military and the local community. She then introduced Lieutenant General Michael McCurry, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Futures and Concepts Command, who welcomed participants to Fort Eustis and highlighted the installation’s role in shaping the future of the Army and supporting national defense.
Attendees learned about the history of the military presence on the Peninsula, its community significance and economic impact, recent installation updates, and the critical role of the shipbuilding industry in supporting national defense.
Featured speakers included Dr. Sean Heuvel of Christopher Newport University; Rick Dwyer, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Military & Federal Facilities Alliance; Col. Stephen Anderson of Joint Base Langley-Eustis; CAPT Dan Patrick of Naval Weapons Station Yorktown; CAPT Scott Rae of U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown; and CAPT Hannah Kriewaldt of SUPSHIP Newport News.
The Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to our sponsors, Board of Directors, and Ambassadors for their support of this important program.
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Photography by Fredericks Photo and Films