Sun City Center observed their traditional Memorial Day Ceremony Monday, May 27th in the Borini Theater at the Kings Point Main Clubhouse. The ceremony was sponsored by all of the various Sun City Center military organizations.

The Military Officers Associations of America (MOAA) was the lead organization in planning and organizing the annual function and it's president Maj. Tom Kilbourn, USA, (Ret) was the Master of Ceremonies. The featured speaker was Former Lieutenant Governor Jennifer Carroll, a retired US Navy Lieutenant Commander who has led Florida's Department of Military Affairs and Department of Veterans Affairs. She gave an excellent, inspirational presentation, which was greatly appreciated and applauded by the audience. Subsequent to her presentation, a musical interlude and tribute to the military services was provided by the Trinity Baptist Church Choir & Friends directed by Rev. James Feist. Colors were presented by the East Bay High School Jr. R.O.T.C.

Following the ceremony the Grand Marshall, RADM Larry Chambers, USN (Ret), accompanied by members of the Ruskin Boy Scout Troop 661 placed a wreath, which was donated by the Sun City Center Funeral Home, at the flagpole outside the auditorium.

Excerpt from Jennifer's Speech:

There are millions across our country who now bask in freedom's precious light solely because of our dedicated and unselfish heroes, whom we honor today that have answered the call to serve in our military.

And that's why we're here - to make sure that our nation never forgets the magnitude of the deeds and sacrifices of the military men and women who have given the last full measure of devotion.

Memorial Day is also a day to remember our veterans - those who have stared the ultimate sacrifice in the face and returned.

Today we come here to recognize the brave sacrifices of America's fallen soldiers, who showed by their service that freedom is not free. We know that bad things happen when good men and women do nothing. Thank God for the good men and women who resolved to fight for this country and our ideals.

Honored Guests

Ed Soucha Pearl Harbor Survivor

Last Role Call

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