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ALBANY, GA -- Lee County gave back to those who give to the county at their U.S.O. themed 22nd Annual Lee County Chamber of Commerce Banquet on Thursday night.

We’ll be recognizing very special people in Lee County tonight that make life work well in Lee County,” says Lee County Chamber Executive Director Winston Oxford.

Oxford says not many people receive a pat on the back for their work, so it’s important to recognize them with an award. A special committee takes nominations from Chamber members and selects man and woman of the year, business of the year and non-profit of the year.

“Afterall, service to humanity is the best work in life and we need to say thank you from time to time,” says Oxford.

Thursday night’s banquet wasn’t just an opportunity to thank those businesses and people that serve Lee County; it was also an opportunity to thank those who serve America. The banquet featured patriotic music and guests from the armed forces.

“All the freedoms that we have in this country, it’s because somebody served overseas and fought for that freedom. What a special day it is and to have our banquet on that day, it’s just really nice,” says 2010-2011 Chairman of the Board Vince Falcione.

In the end, many left with that pat on the back that Oxford says they all deserve.