Maitland City Talk

What could be a more noble cause, one man’s idea, shared with a few who shared with a few more; it became the mission, a community looking to honor its past and present heroes. Those that have agreed to be the protectors of our freedom, the men and women of the armed services, whom have answered the call of duty, with no regard to race, color, religion or part of the country we come from, we are “a band of brothers and sisters.” We have been sent around the world to protect and enforce the freedom that our ancestors entrusted to us. We swore an oath to do this wherever and whenever needed.

On Sunday, Nov. 10, we paid tribute to the young and old, members of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, National Guard, Navy and Marines.

Along with the guests that came to thank and honor the veterans, local school children spent countless hours preparing their own special thanks in the form of banners and letters; and what a beautiful job they did, thank you Maitland school children!

The event featured the newly formed Maitland Military Band, playing a variety of music while people registered and found their way to their favorite spot. At 4 p.m. precisely, the event began. The city of Maitland issued a proclamation declaring the week of Nov. 10–16 as “Maitland Military Veterans Appreciation Week.” A Navy Chaplain provided the invocation. The Young Marines (ages 9 to 18) performed the Colors Ceremony with the precision expected at a military event; this brought us all to attention, from the youngest members who are serving now to the oldest World War II veterans in wheel chairs. During the National Anthem, some saluted, others placed their hands over their hearts. The band proceeded to play a military medley honoring each of the different branches of service, as is tradition; those individual veterans stood for their particular branch in honor of those that have shared the training that entitled them to wear that uniform.

Our guest speaker, Retired U.S. Navy Captain and Purple Heart recipient Warren Hudson, spoke on the true meaning of the Band of Brothers and its origin. The speech was short in words but so rich in history and meaning that I think for those of us that have worn the uniform, it will become a part of who we are.

No celebration would be complete without sharing the all-American meal of hotdogs, burgers, cake and ice cream that was enjoyed by all.

It is at an event like this that so many can come together with a common goal – to be thankful. While so many are thanking us for serving, we the veterans are also saying thanks. We are thankful that we were able to serve our country. It has been our honor.

Semper Fi (Always Faithful),

Ivan Valdes, Maitland City Councilman

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran