Military Leaders, Veterans Honored at South Dade Chamber Event

Military leaders, veterans, elected officials, business owners, educators, first responders and community stakeholders gathered in Homestead for the South Dade Chamber of Commerce Military Appreciation event, an afternoon dedicated to honoring service members whose impact continues long after their time in uniform ends.

The event focused on the theme of “service beyond the uniform,” recognizing military leaders who continue strengthening the community through mentorship, leadership, advocacy and public service.

Opening remarks set the tone for the afternoon with a message that resonated throughout the room.

“Service doesn’t retire with a ring or a handshake. When someone walks out of the building after years of dedication, that spirit of service evolves into something even greater.”

Guests were reminded that the influence of military service continues daily through leadership, guidance and simply “showing up when it matters most.”

Organizers also recognized sponsors and partners who helped make the event possible, including Yuri Rivera with HR Benefits and several local community supporters.

The keynote speaker for the afternoon was Gilbert Robinson, director of staff for the 482nd Fighter Wing at Homestead Air Reserve Base.

Robinson began his Air Force career in 1987 as an aircraft repair specialist, launching a military journey that would span more than three decades, multiple combat operations and nearly every level of enlisted leadership within the Air Force.

Throughout his military career, Robinson served in Operations Denied Flight, Northern Watch, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He eventually rose through the ranks to become command chief of the 482nd Wing, where he oversaw the health, morale, welfare and readiness of more than 1,800 airmen.

In April 2021, Robinson retired from the Air Force as a chief master sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the U.S. Air Force.

However, as Robinson emphasized throughout his remarks, retirement from the uniform did not mean retirement from service.

Today, he continues serving as director of staff for the 482nd Wing at Homestead Air Reserve Base, overseeing 19 staff agencies and directly impacting more than 2,500 airmen and civilian personnel.

Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a second Bachelor of Science degree in information technology from Barry University. His military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal and numerous additional honors recognizing a career defined by leadership and excellence.

During his keynote speech, Robinson reflected on his upbringing in Drew, Mississippi, where he was raised by hardworking parents who instilled the values of sacrifice, discipline, service and integrity.

“I am truly the product of humble beginnings,” Robinson told attendees.

Raised as the youngest of nine children, Robinson spoke about learning responsibility at an early age while growing up on a farm with a father who was a World War II veteran and a mother who worked as a homemaker, seamstress and baker.

“We did not grow up with great wealth, but we grew up rich in values,” he shared.

He explained that the lessons learned during his childhood shaped every chapter of his military and leadership journey.

“My parents taught us that character mattered. They taught us to respect people, respect time and respect opportunities,” Robinson said.

At one point during the speech, Robinson joked that after working on a farm in Mississippi, “the Air Force felt like the easy part,” drawing laughter from the audience.

As he closed his keynote address, Robinson thanked the South Dade Chamber of Commerce for its leadership and dedication to the community.

“May we continue to lead with purpose. May we continue to serve with compassion. And may we continue to leave this community better than we found it,” he said.

The event also featured recognition of several military and community leaders during the presentation of the 2026 South Dade Chamber of Commerce Military Excellence Award.

Honorees included Angel Luis Vasquez, U.S. Coast Guard retired; Sgt. John Castro; Chief Master Sgt. Karie Contreras; and soon-to-be Command Sgt. Maj. Julio Gutierrez.

“These honorees exemplify leadership, integrity, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to both country and community,” attendees heard during the ceremony. “True service is reflected in how we uplift others, strengthen our communities and lead by example every single day.”

Gutierrez was announced as the recipient of the 2026 South Dade Chamber of Commerce Military Excellence Award.

During his acceptance speech, Gutierrez expressed gratitude to the chamber, military leadership, family members, mentors and fellow soldiers who supported him throughout his 25-year military career.

“As a proud Miami native and senior leader serving in the United States Army and the Army National Guard, this recognition holds a very special meaning for me because it comes from the same community that helped shape who I am today,” Gutierrez said.

He emphasized that leadership extends beyond mission accomplishment and includes caring for soldiers, families, mentorship and community involvement.

“Leadership is about building relationships, mentoring future leaders and giving back to the community,” he shared.

The event concluded with remarks recognizing the sacrifices made not only by veterans and retirees, but also by active-duty military members currently serving overseas.

Speakers reflected on the emotional and mental toll military service can place on service members and families separated by deployments and long periods away from home.

“Your service makes this necessary. Your support makes this possible. And to every person in this room — your presence makes this meaningful,” attendees were told during the closing remarks.

Guests were encouraged to stay, network and continue building connections throughout the afternoon as the event came to a close.