Florence, South Carolina – Inviting the community to come together to celebrate the national heroes, the City of Florence Veterans Park Committee is preparing for the 16th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony. Beginning at 11:00 a.m., Florence Veterans Park, at 601 Woody Jones Blvd., the City of Florence will host the event Monday, November 11, 2024. Both locals and guests have a meaningful opportunity to honor the men and women who have served the United States at this free, open event that has grown to be a beloved tradition.
The Crusaders Youth Choir from All Saints Episcopal Day School will play for participants before the official event. Beginning at 10:40 a.m., the choir’s performance will set the event’s patriotic and introspective tone. The primary ceremony is scheduled to start at 11:00 a.m. and run somewhat less than an hour, ending about noon. Designed to honor veterans from all branches of the armed forces, the event promises to be a careful mix of tributes, recognitions, and honors.
Lieutenant Colonel Jaime Zambrano, a senior South Carolina Air National Guard officer, will speak at the ceremony this year. With his years of service, Lt. Col. Zambrano is expected to provide insightful analysis and serve as a reminder of the costs paid by people in uniform. His speech will honor soldiers past and present by stressing the resiliency and dedication of service personnel.
Apart from the keynote address, the celebration this year will have special honors from the South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs. One important event of the program will be the official recognition of Florence School District’s recent Purple Star School District classification. This designation honors the district’s commitment to stand for those who serve by acknowledging its support of military-connected students and their families.
The dedication of a new monument honoring the United States Space Force will be one of the special features of the ceremony. This addition honors the service and dedication of the personnel of the most recent branch of the armed forces, therefore reflecting their relevance.
In honor of those who have served and given their lives, the ceremony will also feature the inclusion of 21 names of local veterans from the Pee Dee area onto the Wall of Honor.
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The display of colors by Wilson High School’s USAF JROTC, a cadet organization representing the dedication of next generations to the virtues of honor, duty, and service, will also be among poignant events. Along with the Veterans Honor Guard, they will engage in a rifle volley and play Taps, a touching ceremony honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for their nation.
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Florence City Manager Scotty Davis expressed his gratitude for the Veterans Park Committee’s dedication, emphasizing the importance of the ceremony in bringing the community together.
“This ceremony is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together and honor the brave men and women who have served our country. We are grateful for the dedication of the Florence Veterans Park Committee in making this event a success each year.”
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All are welcome to visit and help to honor veterans from every age. There will be limited seating hence attendees are advised to bring lawn chairs for extra comfort. This yearly celebration reminds everyone of the value of strong community ties and the gratitude that Florence citizens owe their veterans.
Florence recognizes the bravery and sacrifice of people who have stood up for freedom through the act of common memory and celebration.
