DIAMONDS: TOPGUN was held June 15, 2023, at the Emery Air North Hangar to amplify the region’s prowess in aerospace and military endeavors through the story of Lieutenant Commander Michael Andrews, a U.S. Navy TOPGUN instructor and Rockford native. LCDR Andrews was joined by Captain Deborah Davis McIvy, U.S. Navy Supply Corps Officer and Rockford native, and DIAMONDS emcee Nicole Briscoe, an ESPN SportsCenter anchor and Roscoe native.

 

DIAMONDS debuted as a formal attire storytelling gala with dinner, entertainment, an interactive keynote and panel, aircraft static displays, and a celebration of exemplary achievement. Net proceeds benefited the Disabled American Veterans Blackhawk Life Chapter #29 and helped seed the DIAMONDS Scholar post-secondary scholarship program.