On the 2nd weekend in August, SWFL Veterans Alliance will host its 8th Annual Spirit of ‘45 Weekend Tribute with its Greatest Generation & Beyond Breakfast and Taps Across America to honor the greatest and grandeur of a generation who preserved the United State’s founding principles of 1776 and those sentinel of liberty who followed in their footsteps.
The 2017 theme will bring light to Our Unsung Heroes: Chaplin & Corpsmen. The Greatest Generation & Beyond Breakfast will be held at the Naples Hilton on August 12, 2017 at a new time from 9:30 am – 12 pm. Before the program begins, guests can enjoy the Oakes Victory Garden display, From Sea to Shinning Sea mural, Patriot Photo Booth, various “characters” to spark memories of a sentimental journey and Vote in Honor of a Veteran booth.
The event is free for Veterans and spouse and reservations are required to enter the event, as seating is limited. RSVP at 239.594.2978, or Register Here
The weekend tribute benefits the Peter Thomas History Fund, which provides scholarships for local students, grades 6-12, who advance to Florida History Day and teacher training on Florida’s Role in WWII. The Peter Thomas History Fund, was launched at the 2013 Greatest Generation Breakfast to supports its mission to connect the latest generation to the greatest generation to fight cultural amnesia.
Veterans and family members are again asked to bring photos to be scanned at our Vote in Honor of a Veteran booth sponsored by Collier County Supervisor of Election.
Taps Across America will be held at Lowdermilk Park with music beginning at 6:30 p.m. on August 13 and no reservations are required. The 2nd Sunday in August is the official day to remember the ending of WWII, as proclaimed by the 111th Congressional Resolution in 2010. This day is to remember the ending of WWII and the legacy and lessons of the generation who fought off the greatest tyranny the world had ever known. Florida was the first state to pass a Keep the Spirit of 45 Alive concurrent resolution in 2013.
Guests will enjoy music from Verona Walk Choir, NCB Bugler Corps, Young Marines posting the colors with Golden Gate JROTC serving as guides to the beach where Naples Kiwanis will unfurl their garrison flag as veterans walk to the Gulf to hand off the wreath to the Venture Crew Troop 25. The wreath will be ushered into the Gulf at the proper distance for its proper release by Captain Jim Albert and the US Coast Guard as Taps is sounded from the beach. Following the ceremony, guests will enjoy the traditional M&M’s Ice Cream Social with Sage Catering’s Spirit Cookies.
Taps Across America is free, open to the public and no reservations are required. Some seating will be available and guests are invited to bring chairs, blankets and the whole family.
Spirit of 45 Honors Peter Thomas at Annual State History Competition, Florida History Day
Naples Spirit of 45, started a Special Award at the Florida History Fair in 2012, called the ‘Spirit of ’45 Award’ named in honor of Peter Thomas and his work to keep the legacy of the men and women of WWII alive in America’s memory. The prize is awarded to an outstanding entry about a person, event, or innovation that relates to Florida’s role in WWII.
Table sponsorships and “Thank You for Our Freedom Ads” are available by calling Lois Bolin at 239.777.2281. Click Here to view the packages
For more information, call SWFL Veterans Alliance at 239.594.2978.
