“I am deeply humbled and grateful for this honor.” — Korean War veteran Charlie Euripides on receiving the Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Patriot Award.

Charlie Euripides, a Korean War veteran and longtime owner of the Royal Restaurant, received a standing ovation as he was presented with the 2016 Distinguished Patriot Award at the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Salute to Veterans reception Nov. 10 at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate.

“I am deeply humbled and grateful for this honor,” said Euripides as he accepted the award from Chamber board chairman Robert Shea. “This means so much to me and my family.”

In addition to Euripides, the Chamber of Commerce recognized four businesses that are veteran owned or have demonstrated leadership in hiring veterans and transitioning service members. Also honored were @home real estate, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, Mr. Handyman of Northern Virginia - Arlington to Haymarket, and Sonoma Cellar.

Keynote remarks were provided by Barbara Carson, associate administrator, Office of Veterans Business Development of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

"Veteran entrepreneurs are a driving force in our economy,” said Carson. “Nearly one in every 10 American businesses today is owned by a veteran and veteran-owned businesses collectively employ more than 5 million workers and generate receipts in excess of $1.2 trillion. The SBA is proud to join the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce in honoring these local veteran-owned businesses, just as we are proud to celebrate the success of veterans, reservists, members of the National Guard and service-disabled veterans as they start and grow their small businesses."

U.S. Sen. Mark Warner provided each recipient with a personalized congratulatory letter and flag and former Gov. Jim Gilmore, an Army veteran, attended the celebration which was sponsored by Cotton & Company.

"The Alexandria Chamber is deeply proud to honor these businesses and distinguished patriot and thank them for their service both on and off the battlefield,” said Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Joe Haggerty. “Their commitment to our country and Alexandria should never be forgotten and we greatly appreciate their continued service to strengthening and enhancing our community.”