Thousands of patriots flooded the streets of Downtown Homestead for the fourth annual Homestead Military Appreciation Day. Attendees at the May 30th event enjoyed dozens of military vehicles and displays, an epic obstacle course competition, a dramatic flyover of F-16 Fighting Falcons, and plenty of fun for the whole family with live music and food trucks.
The real draw for this year's event was the epic obstacle course designed to showcase the strength of our military. Twelve teams battled it out for the grand prize of $1200, sponsored by Value Place Lodging, and the honor of displaying the Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) Trophy, sponsored by South Dade News Leader. The grueling course, designed and sponsored by BattleFrog, tested strength and endurance. Competitors pulled a Hummer, scaled walls, crawled through obstacles, and fearlessly finished with 100 pushups as the crowd cheered.
Dozens of food trucks and vendors were situated along the picturesque streets of Downtown Homestead, boats, aircrafts, weaponry, and other interactive displays were available to the public. Those in attendance enjoyed a variety of live music and performances, a K-9 demonstration by the Homestead Police Department, and a children’s area with games and activities. An exhibit of student art and essays on what freedom or honoring service means to them was also on display. The winners of the contest, hosted by the South Dade Chamber of Commerce, were announced to thunderous applause during a moving ceremony.
“The day brought together civilian families, service men and women from all branches of our military, and patriots of all ages,” said Vice Mayor Stephen Shelley, who has been spearheading Military Appreciation Day since its inception four years ago. “It was wonderful to see so many military and civilian families come together in Losner Park for a day that was truly spectacular.”
Military Appreciation Day was the culmination of Military Appreciation month, in which all Homestead residents were encourage to honor our military. In honor of this, the north side of the Seminole Theatre was adorned with a 40 foot long American Flag for the entire month. Krome Avenue was also be decorated with flags and yellow ribbons to honor our service men and women and remind residents and visitors of their commitment to defending American freedom.
The event was a community effort organized by the City of Homestead along with the Homestead Reserve Air Base, the Military Affairs Committee, the South Dade Chamber of Commerce, and Homestead Main Street. For more information on this year’s event, visit www.cityofhomestead.com/military
