Honoring those who served
Hundreds huddled together as the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida whipped around Navarre Park. Neither rain nor cold weather could deter these men and women who gathered to pay their respects to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their nation.
The VFW Spectre Post No. 11367 in Mary Esther hosted the Veterans Day ceremony, honoring both active duty, retired, prisoners of war and missing in action military members.
“Let us also thank our newest veterans who entered the service at such uncertain times,” said Col. Albert M. Elton III, the commander of the 1st Special Operations Group at Hurlburt Field.
Reflecting on the current war on terror, Elton offered words of encouragement, stating that America would win the fight overseas.
“This is a wolf in this world...but understand this, we will prevail,” Elton said of Islamic fundamentalism, referring it to a twisted version of religious salvation. “We are smarter, better equipped and more determined to win this fight than our enemy.
“Make no mistake, our sailors, airmen, marines and army are the good guys.”
Veterans Day is historically observed at 11 a.m. on the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Originally designated Armistice Day, the holiday observes the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I.
Santa Rosa County Commissioner Gordin Goodin read a proclamation, while members of the Ladies Auxiliary of American Legions post 382 and post 4407, as well as Boy Scouts Pack 411 and the Navarre Elks Lodge laid wreaths at the foot of the flagpole.
Free hot dog refreshments followed at each veteran’s respective halls.
For more on this story and to view additional photos, see the Nov. 19 issue of the Navarre Press or subscribe online.
