CFHLA Honors Lost Lives With Patriot Day Breakfast

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association’s (CFHLA) Patriot Day Breakfast, an event that gives the community an opportunity to come together in remembrance of the brave men and women who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The somber event gives attendees time to reflect on this sad day in history, to honor the bravery of the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice, and most importantly, to never forget.
Jack Kemp of Vero Beach will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Patriot Day Breakfast. He will share his story of being in the second tower when the devastating attacks occurred. The former president and managing director at Morgan Stanley, Kemp played a pivotal role in evacuating the people in his division and getting them to safety. Prior to his position at Morgan Stanley, Kemp was a captain in the U.S. Army, where he developed these strong leadership skills.
During the Patriot Day Breakfast, CFHLA will also recognize local law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS and hospitality security personnel for going above and beyond in the line of duty. These local first responders, who are nominated by their respective agencies, will be recognized in a number of categories including a lifetime achievement award. Last year, CFHLA honored 18 first responders in seven categories. Nominations for this year’s awards are currently being accepted and must be submitted by Friday, August 7 for consideration.
CFHLA’s Patriot Day Breakfast will be held at 8 a.m. on Friday, September 11 at the Orange County Convention Center’s West Concourse in the Valencia Ballroom. For more information, to submit a first responder nomination or to purchase tickets, visit CFHLA.org.