The chamber diplomat and military affairs committee are hosting the 30^th annual military appreciation pig roast at 5 pm on July 26 at the Main Street Square in Rapid City, SD. The chamber will recognize 10 U.S. Army and Air Force members assigned to Ellsworth AFB and Camp Rapid.

The men and women who will be recognized selflessly serve our country and protect our freedoms every day. They are experts in their careers and leaders to other airmen and soldiers. Going above and beyond the call of duty is a way of life for them.

The pig roast is free to attend for the public which is made possible by the support of area businesses. Volunteers from the diplomats and military affairs committees will help serve food and welcome guests. Jim White of Sound Pro will emcee the awards presentation. Military officials from Ellsworth and Camp Rapid will present the awards to the honorees.

The event provides an opportunity for members of the community to honor local military members. It also provides a venue to help promote relationships between local businesses and members of the military.

The tradition of presenting awards in the military goes back to the earliest days of the U.S. Army. Military award ceremonies are planned using a script. Each person involved in the ceremony has a role to play in it. One of the most important roles is the emcee. This is the person who narrates and maintains the schedule of events for the ceremony. The award recipient is, of course, also very important part of the ceremony. When the presenter hands the award to the recipient, the recipient immediately takes the award and shakes the hand of the presenter. If the presenter is an officer, the recipient renders a salute to the presenter. This process is standard protocol in the U.S. military when awards are presented.

The Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce was established in 1886. The chamber currently has 10 full-time employees and many members who are made up of people from local businesses and organizations in western South Dakota.

“The purpose of the chamber of commerce is to promote a strong business climate in the Black Hills and enhance the quality of life for its members.” said April Foster, senior administrative assistant, “The chamber maintains positive and collaborative relationships with municipal, county, state and federal governments and their representatives.”

“The chamber staff and I take commitment to our members and community seriously. Every day we do everything we can to improve the quality of life here.” Said Linda Rabe, president and CEO of the chamber of commerce.