By Sharon Ann Bacon
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8195 located in West Park, FL celebrated veterans of yesteryear and today while giving back to the community on Veteran’s Day. The Saturday morning community breakfast kicked off one of many annual days of remembrance and thanksgiving to honor the service women and men, auxiliary members, family, and friends of the Post. The breakfast preceded a special, solemn salute to the past West Park Post members at the Hallandale Cemetery. The United States flag was lowered as member names were read and honored.
“We will never forget the many war stories of our deceased members, and the good times many shared among us. Day after day, I honor you. We will always remind the community about our unsung heroes at the battle lines,” said VFW Chaplain Gerald Adams.
“As we remember our history and share our memories, it was not ever an easy time for our Veterans. I thank God that I am standing here today and able to say, “thank you” to the veterans and their families,” said VFW Quartermaster Cynthia Addison.
The members then caravanned to Presidential Place, an assisted living and memory care home in Hollywood, to once again honor the veterans and families on their day of recognition. The last stop before the evening celebration at the VFW was to Miramar City Hall for a check presentation to the Post. Miramar City Mayor Wayne Messam and the city council members rolled out a welcome mat for the veterans and presented them with a donation from the city.
Once the members returned to the VFW Post, the parking lots were full of members, families and friends, while trays and trays of varied bar-b-que, meat and side dishes, including an array of desserts were delivered to the Post. The end of the Veteran’s Day celebration was in a true communion style that the VFW Post is known and famous for throughout the nation. Giving back is expressed and demonstrated continually on a day-to-day basis. The VFW Post 8195 is home to many, and all are welcome.
