NPC Luncheon: Sec. Robert Wilkie

Photo Credit: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie meets National Press Club Board Chairman Derek Wallbank before a Headliners Luncheon event featuring the Secretary’s remarks on this weekend’s Veterans Day remembrances and his 100th day in the position." Noel St. John

Photo Credit: Describing the mission of his department, VA Secretary Wilkie stated, “We exist to provide America’s veterans with the means to remind their fellow citizens why the sleep soundly at night, and that is why it is such an honor for me to be a part of that team."" Noel St. John

Photo Credit: In a visibly emotional part of his remarks, The secretary described the work and death in Vietnam of photojournalist and war correspondent Dickey Chapelle. Bill Lord, a veteran of Viet Nam and an author on the subject was seated at the head table. Noel St. John

Photo Credit: Secretary Wilkie kept in his desk a “dog eared copy of Dan Rather’s book, "The Camera Never Blinks” saying that during his youth, he wanted to be one of "Murrow’s Boys.”" Noel St. John

Photo Credit: Upon receiving the traditional National Press Club coffee mug from Chairman Wallbank, the secretary asked if we gave more lavish gifts to our speakers during the ‘70s and ’80. Wallbank promised him another one should he return for a future engagement. Also pictured are Josh Rogin (far left) and Kevin Wensing of the Headliners Committee (center left)." Noel St. John