On October 10, 2024, the Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) hosted its 104th Annual Maritime Banquet, bringing together over 800 industry executives and dignitaries at the Hilton Norfolk | The Main. At this annual tradition, VMA celebrated the ongoing progress of Virginia’s ports and supply chain industries, while honoring exceptional individuals with the 2024 “Distinguished Service Award” and “Port Champion Award.” A special resolution recognized the retiring Port Director of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Area Port of Norfolk-Newport News, and key industry achievements were highlighted as part of the celebration of maritime excellence “Across Virginia.”
Distinguished Service Award
Edward F. O'Callaghan, Founder and President of Audax Transportation, was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the maritime and logistics sectors over a career spanning more than four decades.
O'Callaghan has played a pivotal role in advancing Virginia’s ports and marine terminals, helping to secure the Commonwealth’s sovereignty over its terminals and enhancing the governance and competitive position of Virginia’s port operations. His leadership, especially in advocating for motor carriers, professional truck drivers, and port stakeholders, has had a lasting impact on the industry and improving the competitive position of Virginia’s port operations.
In a video acceptance, O'Callaghan expressed his gratitude for the honor and his continued dedication to supporting the future growth of the maritime industry.
Over the years, O'Callaghan has held numerous leadership roles, including with the Tidewater Motor Truck Association, Virginia Trucking Association, Virginia Maritime Association, Future of Hampton Roads, and the Virginia Port Authority Board of Commissioners. His efforts have been critical in positioning Virginia for continued success and growth.
Port Champion Award
The title of “Port Champion” is only awarded to individuals who, without having direct business interests, have embraced the maritime community with a spirit of cooperation and whose actions have substantively improved Virginia’s ports and marine transportation system.
The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) proudly announces the presentation of the prestigious Port Champion Award to Jeffrey Allen Orrock, Meteorologist-in-Charge of the National Weather Service in Wakefield, Virginia.
Since joining the National Weather Service in 2011, Jeffrey Orrock has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to the maritime community. As a pivotal figure in enhancing the understanding of weather impacts on Virginia’s ports and marine transportation system, Mr. Orrock has consistently advocated for refined capabilities and tools tailored to the specific weather forecasting needs of vessel operators across the Commonwealth.
Orrock’s expertise and the services of the National Weather Service under his leadership have significantly improved decision-making for both government authorities and private sector stakeholders in the maritime industry, mitigating the operational impacts of weather events, ultimately safeguarding lives, property, and maritime operations.
This honor underscores the essential collaboration between the Virginia maritime community and partners such as the National Weather Service, emphasizing the critical role of weather intelligence in the safety and efficiency of marine operations.
Honoring Mark J. Laria, retiring Port Director of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Area Port of Norfolk-Newport News
The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) proudly recognized Mark Laria, retiring Port Director of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Area Port of Norfolk-Newport News, with a Resolution of Appreciation for his distinguished career safeguarding U.S. borders and facilitating international trade through Virginia’s ports, marking a significant contribution to the maritime industry.
Since 2001, Laria has led Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Area Port of Norfolk-Newport News in executing its mission to safeguard the American people, secure U.S. borders, and promote economic prosperity. His exemplary leadership, marked by a collaborative spirit with the maritime industry, has played a vital role in facilitating international trade while ensuring national security.
Laria’s fair and engaged approach as a federal liaison has been instrumental in fostering the conditions for significant growth in trade through Virginia’s ports, allowing for the economic activities which generate nearly 20% of the jobs in Virginia, impacting 730,000 jobs, contributing $8.1 billion in annual state and local taxes, and 14% of Virginia’s Gross State Product.
In recognition of his contributions to Virginia’s maritime industry, the VMA presented Mr. Laria with the Certificate of Honorary Lifetime Membership. This prestigious honor highlights his dedication to the promotion, protection, and encouragement of Virginia’s ports.
