Retired Gen. James Mattis is set to receive the Vandenberg Prize from the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan during a virtual event Monday, June 21.
The event, which the public can view online, will also feature a conversation on the military, diplomacy and global engagement moderated by U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer, R-Grand Rapids Township.
“General Mattis has always upheld the notion that America must lead in diplomacy and international collaboration, that peace won at the diplomatic table was much preferrable to peace won because of the sacrifice of our men and women in uniform,” said Michael Van Denend, the council’s executive director. “We are honored to highlight the General’s service to the country and the world.”
To register to view the event, which starts at noon, click here.
The Vanderberg Prize is named after former Republican U.S. Sen. Arthur Vandenberg. Vandenberg, who died in 1951, was also the editor and publisher of the Grand Rapids Herald from 1906 until 1928. He entered the Senate in 1928 to fill a vacancy, and he held the seat until his death, according to his bio.
Also during Monday’s meeting, the council will present the annual Hillman-Orr Award to the late Ambassador, philanthropist and businessman Peter F. Secchia. Secchia, who served as ambassador to Italy from 1989 to 1993, died in October 2020 but was aware of the award before his passing, according to a news release from the council.
The Hillman-Orr Award is given “to a West Michigan individual or institution that mirrors the intent of the Council’s founding leaders to bring global awareness and international understanding to the West Michigan community,” according to a news release.
“There was no hesitation among the board of directors about this year’s Hillman-Orr Award,” council board president Dick Gauthier said in a statement. “Peter’s service to country and skill in developing a global business that brought the world to our community is inspiring.”
Original source can be found here.
