Lake City has a proud military tradition. I remember well the support you generated when we were fighting to save this medical center. Not only were we able to showcase the quality care delivered to our veterans, but you impressed the Commission with your community support. That same patriotic spirit brings us here today, and I applaud you for your continued support of our community and Nation’s veterans.
Our cemeteries are filled with brave men and women whose families and friends can tell numerous stories about their heroic deeds. Some served during times of war and some served during times of peace. Some received medals and some did not. Some were in harm’s way and some were not. But in every instance and in every way, these men and women answered our Nation’s call of service and we owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude.
Often I hear the term hero being used to describe professional athletes or entertainers who have struggled to overcome substance abuse. I think the term is used too freely. In my mind, a young Florida student got it just right. When asked in an essay question, “What is a hero?” a student answered, “It is a person who would give his life in defense of his friends.”
His teacher penalized his grade because she said that he should have given an example.
Later in life, he did give an example – himself. That same young man – Emory Bennett – joined the Army after graduation. And during a tour of duty during the Korean War, as two communist Chinese Army battalions charged a ridge above a rice paddy, he jumped from his foxhole armed only with his automatic weapon. The 21-year-old was instrumental in allowing 400 United Nations troops to retreat with their wounded before being killed by the advancing Chinese. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism.
While he may not have provided an example to his teacher’s liking that day, he indeed provided an example himself, and in doing so, saved the lives of hundreds of fellow soldiers on the battlefield. The Veterans Nursing Home in Volusia County is named in honor of this true hero.
As is rightful tradition on Memorial Day, Americans gather for thoughtful services and moments of reflection. Some will visit cemeteries and read markers and inscriptions that pay honor to our brave patriots. Some look at pictures of family members and friends who gave their life for our freedom. But in each individual moment of honor, the lives of these brave men and women are not simply etched in stone but more importantly – they are etched in the hearts of free men and women. It is through our actions and our respect for them that their memories will continue to live on and their sacrifices will continue inspire us to be honored for years to come.
Let me thank you for all that the Lake City community does for our veterans. Thank you for continuing to rekindle the memories of those who are no longer with us, and thank you for the support you give to those in the military who carry the burden this day.
Our nation’s greatness can be traced in the sacrifice and blood of honorable and courageous men and women. Today we honor them together. May God bless those who have gone before us, and may God continue to bless the United States of America.
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