While some gave all, certainly, when it comes to our military veterans, all gave some.
Veteran’s Day, observed Monday, is an opportunity for those in our country, and community, who didn’t serve to show appreciation for those who did with valor and honor.
Here is a list of events around town that begin Friday in which our communities will tip their collective caps to those who wore a helmet, an eagle on their epilates and hearts on their sleeves for the Red, White and Blue.
Friday, Nov. 8, 6-9 p.m.: Soldier City Veteran’s Salute Dinner. This dinner event , at the St. Thomas Aquinas Social Hall pays tribute to Veterans of all wars. Free meals to as many of St. Cloud’s Veterans as are made possible through the generous donations of sponsors and the purchase of corporate tables.
The event will feature a Presentation of Colors, 21-Gun Salute, and T.A.P.S. This year’s featured guest speaker is Retired Marine Corps Major General James S. “Hammer” Hartsell. Gen. Hartsell completed 37 years of active and reserve duty, beginning as an enlisted Marine in 1981 and completing a distinguished and highly decorated military career as a Major General. He was appointed Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA) by Gov. Ron DeSantis and unanimously approved by Florida’s Cabinet in 2021. Hartsell completed a successful 22-year civilian career in the Healthcare Industry where he provided leadership in Marketing, Product Management, U.S. and Global Business Development, and Hospital Administration. He also is a former elected President of the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA).
If you, your company, or someone you know would like to take part in this event or acquire a last-minute corporate table, reach out to St. Cloud Main Street.
Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11 a.m.: St. Cloud Police Department ‘Ruck Walk’. The walk, done in years past, will take off from St. Cloud VFW Post 3227. This event is all about raising awareness and funds for McCormick Research Institute, an organization dedicated to providing crucial therapeutic services for veterans and individuals with special needs.
A ruck walk or march is a form of exercise that involves walking or hiking while carrying a weighted backpack. The word "ruck" comes from the durable backpack, or rucksack, used to carry equipment. Rucking originated in the military, where soldiers would carry rucksacks weighing up to 70 pounds to train for carrying supplies over long distances. It's a low-impact exercise that can improve strength, cardiovascular capacity, balance, bone density, and caloric burn.
Saturday, Nov. 9, 10 a.m.: 2024 Veterans Day Parade. The parade, which alternates between Kissimmee and St. Cloud, will form up at 8:30 a.m. by the St. Cloud boat ramp near Pennsylvania Avenue. Awards will be given for Best Band. Best Float and Best Unit. For details contact Commander Pierre (321-443-3419) or Vice Commander Dottie (407-726-5510) or email OCVC10@gmail.com.
Saturday, Nov. 9, 5-7 p.m.: City of Kissimmee Dinner with a Veteran. Join the City of Kissimmee for a special evening at the Chambers Park Community Center, dedicated to honoring those who have served our country. Bring a veteran and enjoy a free dinner at an event designed as a coming-together as a community to show our appreciation for those who have served.
