Honoring a Hero: America's oldest survivor of the Attack on Pearl Harbor passed away earlier in April, and his legacy reminds us of the selfless service and sacrifice of so many throughout our nation's history. Vaughn P. Drake Jr., who died April 7 at the age of 106, was laid to rest in Winchester, VA, on April 16. Drake was a 23-year-old Army engineer stationed at Pearl Harbor when the attack hit. He later served overseas during the war before graduating from the University of Kentucky with a degree in engineering. Drake, formerly a member of SAME who joined the Society in 1943, continued to work in the industry as a professional engineer until retiring in 1981. As the oldest known survivor of Pearl Harbor, his story is a testament to resilience, longevity, and bravery. (fb)

Now is the time to share your knowledge and contribute to mission-critical conversations. https://ow.ly/8FAJ50VFJXc The SBC 2025 Call for Presentations is officially open, offering you the chance to submit impactful ideas that will educate, inform, and inspire your peers. We are seeking dynamic content that empowers businesses—from those new to federal contracting to long-established firms—to succeed in the ever-evolving federal landscape. Military engineering professionals and industry leaders play a key role in the defense infrastructure. Your insights are essential to strengthening the partnerships that enable operational success across the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. By presenting at SBC, you’ll be influencing how businesses engage with the government and support national objectives. 📊Presentation Tracks Include: • Entering the Federal Marketplace – Strategies and best practices for businesses newly engaging in federal contracting. • Marketing and Business Development – Tools and techniques for positioning your business within the unique federal procurement environment. • Regulations, Rules, and the Government Framework – Critical updates and guidance on navigating complex and changing federal requirements. • Advanced Business and Procurement Strategies – Forward-thinking approaches for experienced firms seeking continued growth and excellence. This is your opportunity to engage with a mission-focused community, share expertise, and help advance the shared goal of a stronger, more resilient industrial base. ⭐Submit your abstract today and be part of the conversation that shapes the future of military engineering and industry collaboration and Accelerate Readiness: https://ow.ly/8FAJ50VFJXc (fb)