Community rallies for veterans with heartfelt luncheon
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Veterans and active-duty members were welcomed with open arms at American Legion Post 392 for an afternoon of celebration and gratitude.
Hosted by the Women's Council of Realtors' Central Panhandle, the luncheon honored dozens of military service members with food, music, games and words from military personnel speakers.
'We find it necessary to remember the sacrifice and the services that people have rendered in rendering ours with their life. We know that they are receiving compensation, but it still requires sacrifice. And we're delighted to once again take time out of our very busy schedules as realtors to say thank you, thank you for your service, thank you for your time, and thank you for your life,' Women's Council of Realtors Central Panhandle President Patrice Johnson said.
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'It is tough when you deploy for six months and are in, you know, situations that are very different and dangerous, having the support from home is just absolutely wonderful. And you could see that just every time they had a chance to talk to them while they are overseas, it brightens them up. And when they got back home, you know, you could just see the relief,' Navy veteran Lyle McDaniels said.
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McDaniels said events like these not only showcase the community's appreciation, it also is a way to make friends with fellow veterans and active service members in the area.
'Next thing you know, we're chatting up you know, and when you walk into some place like this, you can easily meet and make friends and talk about, you know, whether it's life experiences in the U.S., or experiences from your past in the service,' McDaniels added.
Military Appreciation Month runs through the end of May. If you see a veteran, take a moment to thank them for their service.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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