The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Brigadier General Jeffrey L. Newton (Ret), former Director of the Joint Staff for the Alabama National Guard, as the keynote speaker at its monthly luncheon Nov. 21. Newton offered insights on veteran-focused initiatives and his extensive military career.

During his presentation, Newton highlighted key programs supporting veterans and their families, including a $50 million Dependent Scholarship Program that provides educational opportunities for the children of veterans. He also discussed Alabama’s five state-of-the-art veterans’ homes and shared plans for a potential second veterans’ cemetery in North Alabama, which would further honor the service of the state’s military personnel.

Newton emphasized the importance of federal per diem dollars, which help offset costs for operating the veterans’ homes, and provided details on eligibility requirements for burial at veterans’ cemeteries. He encouraged veterans and their families to pre-register at va.gov to streamline the process.

With a career spanning more than four decades, Newton served in various leadership roles, including deployments in support of Operations Allied Force, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. His accolades include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit and induction into the USAF Enlisted Heritage Hall’s “Wall of Achievers.”

The luncheon was sponsored by Structured Technology LLC. Leeds First Baptist Church hosted the luncheon and Leeds First Methodist Ladies served the meal.