28th Annual Memorial Day Observance Ceremony in Tampa Bay

Honoring Fallen Heroes and Military Families

• 🇺🇸 The 28th annual Memorial Day Observance ceremony was held at Veterans Memorial Park & Museum, saluting military families and honoring fallen heroes.
• 🎗️ Special recognition was given to American Gold Star members present, acknowledging their profound sacrifice and ongoing support.
• 🙏 The ceremony included the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, and an invocation, emphasizing remembrance and the price of freedom.

Speakers Reflect on Sacrifice and Service

• 🎖️ Retired Circuit Court Judge and Air Force Colonel Greg Holder welcomed attendees, highlighting the importance of honoring those who served.
• 🗣️ Commissioner Donna Cameron Sepa emphasized that "Freedom isn't free" and urged a steadfast commitment to preserving and strengthening the nation's values.
• ✈️ Senator Jay Collins, a former Green Beret, spoke about Memorial Day as a responsibility, urging attendees to live lives that honor the sacrifice of the fallen.
• 💔 Evelyn Brady, President of the American Gold Star Mothers Tampa Bay chapter, shared the significance of the "Garden of Gold" flags, focusing on the lives lived by fallen heroes.
• 🇺🇸 Colonel Al Carter recounted the history of Decoration Day, emphasizing reconciliation and remembrance as core to honoring sacrifices.
• 🧠 Colonel Jeff Morazzi shared personal stories of loss and remembrance, stressing the importance of bearing witness and sharing the stories of fallen service members.

Community Support and Future Initiatives

• 🏡 Commissioner Sepa highlighted efforts to acquire adjacent property for veterans' housing, expanding the park's mission.
• 🌟 The "Garden of Gold" initiative, featuring personal life flags for fallen heroes, was presented as a way to honor their lives beyond their dates of service.
• 🇺🇸 Plans were announced for a new Gold Star family memorial and a circular meditation garden at Veterans Memorial Park.
• 🚩 A new, large American flag was dedicated, symbolizing the community's unwavering commitment to those who served.
• 🤝 The ceremony concluded with an invitation to visit the park's memorials, connect with veteran service organizations, and enjoy refreshments, reinforcing community support for veterans and their families.