The French Republic Elevates Mel Dick to “Officier” of The Legion of Honor

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mel Dick, President of the Wine Division & Senior Vice President of Southern Wine & Spirits of America, has been elevated to Officier of The Legion of Honor. The honorable Gaël de Maisonneuve, Consul General of France in Miami, officially presented the title on February 9, 2011 during a ceremony at the French Consulate in Miami.

The French Republic first recognized Mel Dick in 2000 with the distinction of “Chevalier” of The Legion of Honor. This honor was bestowed in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the French wine, champagne, spirits and water industries. French President Nicolas Sarkozy confirmed Mel Dick’s elevation to “Officier”, when he signed an official decree on October 28, 2010.

This honor serves as a sign of France’s appreciation for Mel Dick’s dedication and contributions to the advancement of France and its culture. Created by Napoléon Bonaparte in 1802, The Legion of Honor is the highest honor given by the French Government. It acknowledges outstanding military and civil service and can be bestowed on foreigners as well as French citizens.

Photo attached (From Left to Right: Gaël de Maisonneuve, Mel & Bobbi Dick.)

About Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc.

Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. is the nation’s largest wine and spirits distributor with operations in 33 markets. The multi-state distributor currently operates in: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia—as well as the additional seven states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Utah through the Southern-Odom/Spirits West partnership. In addition, Southern has a presence in Maryland and the District of Columbia through a joint venture with F.P. Winner Wine & Spirits as well as a joint venture operation in Minnesota with J.J. Taylor Distributing Company. Southern also holds operating licenses and permits in Nebraska and Texas. On a national basis, Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. employs more than 11,000 team members. For more information, see: http://www.southernwine.com.

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