 |
 |
|
|
Avon Park seven years ago, when Joy Faulkner realized her community Crystal Lake Club did not sponsor any Veteran’s day events, she said “We’ll have one next year if I have to do it myself!”
And that’s just what happened.
This is the sixth year Faulkner has organized the Veteran’s Day Observance at Crystal Lake Club, but she has not had to do it by herself. Many other residents who share her sense of patriotism, her need to remember America’s heroes, have joined her in this annual event.
Why has she been so motivated? “Because I am a very proud American,” she said. “My dad taught me to be proud of my country. It’s a labor of love.”
The 2005 observance was held Monday in the packed clubhouse, followed by a special dedication just outside the clubhouse.
Special Thanks To: |
Hank Lozier | Jahna Cements | Joe Barruso & Vadan Nelly | Bob Zebig | Don Mellske |Bjorn Kristiansen | Dennis Allman | Ed Northrup | Joy Faulkner | Kathy Morin | Pat Towle | Ralph Flenniken |
Within the clubhouse, tables along the back and one side wall displayed photos of many of the residents from their days in the service, along with other military memorabilia. One table marked “We Will Never Forget You,” honored those residents who had been in the service and who have passed away. In fact, Monday’s program was dedicated to three such men: Jack Donovan, Rene Brasley and Jim Locke.
And because of Locke and several other residents who had server in the Canadian military, the Canadian flag was flown along with the stars and stripes.
At the outset of the program, a color guard made up of residents Roy Ballard, John Scott, Bruce Lydy and Jim Marazza led scores of other veterans from the rear of the clubhouse to the front, where they took turns stating their names and their military outfits.
The program itself contained patriotic and inspirational music and a medley of armed forces songs, tributes to those who have died, a history of the origin of Veterans Day, and several poems honoring those in the service and promoting peace and freedom.
Participating in the program were Arlyn Fisher, Don Faulkner, Maggie Divis, Gerry Kenneally, Nancy Geer, Sue Distin, Gene McEndree, Betty Marin, Ray Stebbins, Esther Mussmann and Chuck Thomas.
Also thanked for their help were Mary and Ed Mayer, Betty Janisch, Yvonne Laya, Evie McLean, Maureen Murphy, John Schodorf, John Scott, Bob Zebig and Sam Chirco…
Article By: Larry Levey of the News-Suns Correspondent
Links |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |