Air University Foundation luncheon to honor Brokaw Published Oct. 14, 2011 MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The Air University Foundation is hosting a luncheon for honorary degree recipient Tom Brokaw from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 14 at the Renaissance Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center. Brokaw will be the featured guest speaker at the luncheon. According to Joe Panza, Air University Foundation executive director, the luncheon will provide a venue for Brokaw to speak to an expected audience of 500 local community and military representatives. "We welcome the opportunity to have Mr. Brokaw as our guest speaker. His background as a respected journalist and author of the perennial best-selling book, 'The Greatest Generation,' about the WWII generation, shows his deep understanding of the sacrifices service members have made to our great country," Panza said. Panza said prominent business executives, civic leaders and officials including Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley, Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange and senior leadership from Maxwell-Gunter are expected to attend the luncheon. "To host a speaker as renowned as Tom Brokaw is a special occasion for the Air University Foundation. The foundation, which is entering its 17th year, is totally committed to enhancing the mission of the Air University. It's a privilege for all of the officers and trustees of the AU foundation to enhance the Air University's role as the premier military academic institution in the country," Panza said. "The sole purpose of the Air University Foundation is to provide financial support for the Air University when appropriated funds are insufficient to provide the extra margin of excellence sought by the university," Panza said. Other programs supported by the foundation are the Air War College's National Security Forum and its NSF Alumni Outreach program; various conferences and symposiums; the development and fielding of exhibits and displays at the Air Force Enlisted Heritage Hall; and the Air University's Blue Dart program. The foundation is an independent 501 (C)(3) not-for-profit private organization. The foundation also supports faculty and student research, various award programs, distinguished speakers, and other programs that enhance the educational experience of the Air University. Individuals and organizations interested in the luncheon can visit the foundation's web site at http://www.airuniversityfoundation.org or contact them via phone at 953-3174. Courtesy of Air University Public Affairs