The second annual Military Appreciation Day Event on May 25th was a successful event thanks to the hard work, commitment and support of a team of volunteers, City of Homestead staff and sponsors, who were honored by Councilman Stephen R. Shelley during a special presentation of the June 19th Homestead City Council meeting. The free outdoor Memorial Weekend event was a community effort organized by the City of Homestead in collaboration with the Homestead Air Reserve Base, the Military Affairs Committee and the Greater Homestead/Florida City Chamber of Commerce.
“Military Appreciation Day is a time to honor and remember the sacrifices taken on by military men, women and their families who ensure the freedom we enjoy every day,” said Councilman Shelley, Liaison to the Military Affairs Committee and who spearheaded the organization of the event. “Thanks to the exceptional work, dedication and support of our committee members and sponsors, we were able to provide a venue for South Florida, not only to honor military men and women of the armed forces but also to educate the community through hands-on exhibits and displays in a family fun environment.”
For their insightful planning, diligent preparation, and dedicated execution, Councilman Shelley awarded certificates of appreciation to the Military Appreciation Day Committee – Carlos Batista, Ron Mongole and Steve Alexander from the Military Affairs Committee, Timothy Norton and Colonel Elwin A. Rozyskie, Jr. from the Homestead Air Reserve Base, Yvonne Knowles from Homestead Main Street, Rosa Brito from the Homestead and Florida City Chamber of Commerce and a number of City of Homestead staff who worked in the planning and production of the event. Councilman Shelley also awarded certificates of appreciation to sponsors Sylvia Bernstein & Carlos Batista of Value Place, Dale Machesic of the South Dade News Leader, Robert Chaplin of Rotary Club of Homestead, Matt Becherer of Homestead-Miami Speedway, Douggie Hitchcock of Thunder Country 100.3, and the Miami Herald.
Military Appreciation Day took place on Saturday, May 25th and featured military vehicles and boats lined up along the picturesque streets of Historic Downtown Homestead where the community had the opportunity to learn about how the different branches of the armed forces serve and protect our country through a variety of military displays including weapons, parachutes and information booths. Families also enjoyed live music, special performances, a K-9 demonstration and an art exhibit by Homestead students on the meaning of freedom and the military.
