The community gathered together on Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary to pay tribute to the country’s heroes during the annual Veterans Day Ceremony, hosted by the Military Officers Association of America, Indian River Chapter.
The annual event serves as a powerful reminder that freedom is a cherished right, paid for by the unwavering commitment and sacrifice of the nation’s service members.
The ceremony, which began as Armistice Day before being expanded after World War II and the Korean War, honors all who have worn the uniform across every branch and generation.
Following the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance, Pastor Jeremy Rebman of the First Methodist Church delivered the invocation, giving thanks and honoring the “courageous men and women who have stepped forward at great cost to defend us.”
Surviving veterans from various eras and Gold Star Families were acknowledged before a wreath was placed at the cenotaphs in remembrance of those who gave their all. That was followed by a patriotic medley played by the Vero Beach High School Band.
Indian River County Commissioner Susan Adams, whose distinguished public service career began with her election to the Fellsmere City Council in 2007, delivered the keynote address.
Adams emphasized that Memorial Island is a place of reflection and respect, before sharing a personal connection through her grandfather and uncle, both of whom served in World War II.
She spoke of the pride in seeing her own son, a member of the Sebastian River High School Naval Junior ROTC, standing with the Color Guard.
Recounting the history of Veterans Day, Adams quoted President Ronald Reagan, who said veterans “ennoble our nation.”
“Veterans don’t stop serving when they come home. They become teachers, business owners, coaches, mentors, public servants, volunteers and neighbors. They strengthen the very fabric of our community, the quiet foundation beneath the freedoms that we enjoy,” said Adams.
Adams stressed that service is a lifelong calling, and charged all citizens to honor veterans through action, whether by volunteering, mentoring, or simply being a good neighbor.
“Freedom endures only when service continues, from generation to generation, in big ways and small.”
The ceremony concluded with the deeply affecting notes of Taps, followed by a benediction offered by Rev. Sylvester McIntosh, Ret. USMC, a Silver Star and Purple Heart recipient, who gave thanks for the sacrifices made by all service members and their families.
The ceremony came full circle, celebrating the service of past, present, and future defenders of American liberty, when the Oath of Enlistment was administered to several local young men who will eventually become “future Army veterans.”
Photos by Joshua Kodis
