MARQUETTE -- Three companies were recognized at Operation Action U.P.'s annual meeting.

Westland Lime, Potlach and Basic Marine received awards for their achievements.

Representatives from the companies spoke about the importance of the recognition and how each company has contributed to economic well being in the Upper Peninsula.

The recognition also allows companies to provide more details about their operations.

"One of the things that we hear time and time again at the conclusion of our annual meeting is 'we never knew' and so many people walk away from here having a better appreciation for the kinds of things that are being done up here and the ways that people are earning their living and providing jobs to the folks that reside here in the U.P.," said Operation Action Co-chair Brett French.

Nominations were gathered from businesses, chambers of commerce, economic developers and the public from across the U.P.