This past summer Gabriela Moreno, Director of Sales for Holiday Inn Jacksonville E295 Baymeadows, was approached by Navy Aviation Officer Candidate (AOCS) Alexanna Williams. AOCS Williams was kind enough to allow permission to share her story with our team at Shaner Hotel Group.  

AOCS Alexanna Williams enlisted into the Navy in July 2007 where she was deployed three times to the Middle East; in 2007, 2008, and 2009-10 while onboard USS Nimitz.

To advance her already outstanding career, in October 2019 she attended the Senior Enlisted Academy in Newport Rhode Island and was recognized as a Top Academy Performer. In early 2020, AOCS Williams submitted a package to be considered for Chief Warrant Officer. Navy Chief Warrant Officers (CWOs) are technical specialists who perform knowledge and skills of a specific occupational field at a level beyond what is normally expected.

By March of 2021, AOCS Williams received the amazing news that she had been selected for Chief Warrant. In civilian terms, after 14 years as an enlisted service member, she was to join the ranks as an Officer of The United States Navy.

In search of a venue to host her accomplishments, AOCS Alexanna Williams found that several hotels were unwilling to work with her due to her limited budget. When she first came into contact with Gabriela, she was assured that she would not be turned away. It was at this point Gabriela Moreno met with General Manager, Fernando Nemer, and together they agreed that they would sponsor the event space for this momentous occasion.

On October 1st, 2021 the National Anthem sang true in through the banquet hall & lobby announcing the start of the beautiful ceremony where AOCS Alexanna Williams became Senior Chief Warrant Officer Alexanna Williams. her additional awards included Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Global  War on  Terrorism Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and various campaign, unit, and service awards. Holiday Inn Jacksonville E295 Baymeadows proudly supports our country, the United States Navy, and all those who serve to defend our Constitution.