Pensacola joined the nation in observing Veterans Day 2015, with the annual parade downtown, and ceremony at Veterans’ Memorial Park.
On a warm, sunny November day the ceremony began with a pause – as the park’s bell tower chimed 11 times at 11 a.m.
“As many of you know, that was the genesis of Armistice Day in 1918, for the Great War, the War to End All Wars. And we know that, unfortunately, wasn’t the case,” Retired Navy Capt. Butch Hansen, President of the Veterans Memorial Park Foundation and the ceremony’s host. He said it’s important to take time and honor those who have worn the nation’s uniform and given the ultimate sacrifice, as is done on Memorial Day. But he added that Veteran’s Day is different.
“Veterans’ Day, as established by Congress, is ‘A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.’”
Guest speaker for the event was retired Rear Admiral Donald Quinn. In his ten minute address, he told the audience that his fervent hope is that ceremonies such as this, will inspire some who will serve in the future, as many have done in the past and are doing so now.
“For our very survival, since the Articles of Confederation were ratified by the original 13 states in 1781, has been guaranteed by one thing – the willing service by our men and women in uniform,” said Quinn.
Armistice Day was first commemorated by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919, and became a national holiday in 1938. In 1954, Congress passed -- and President Dwight Eisenhower signed – legislation changing the name to Veterans Day. Today, Quinn says about 22 million Americans once wore the nation’s uniform.
After Quinn’s remarks, a new bench at the park was dedicated by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. President Terry Williams said all branches are included. Watching over them is a multi-colored skull with the Ace of Spades.
“Red – representing the blood that has been shed on the battlefield,” Williams told the audience. “Gold – representing all branches of the military service of the United States. Black represents the heavy hearts possessed for those who gave their lives, for those missing in action, and for prisoners of war. The skull and Ace of Spades represents the death that war leaves in its wake.”
Two plaques honoring a pair of area servicemen who recently died in Afghanistan – both Air Force -- were dedicated during the ceremony. Staff Sgt. Forrest Sibley died by hostile gunfire in August, and Senior Airman Nathan Sartain was killed last month in a plane crash. Theirs are the 12th and 13th plaques honoring local residents who have fallen in the War on Terrorism.
