- December 6, 2024
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The city of Ocoee hosted its annual Veterans Day Ceremony Nov. 7 at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center.
Ocoee residents, city leaders, family and friends gathered for the morning honoring military veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. Attendees were greeted by Ocoee Middle School students who gave out hand-written cards thanking veterans and their families.
The event's festivities included a welcome message from Mayor Rusty Johnson, greetings from U.S. Congressman Daniel Webster, an invocation from Commissioner George Oliver III, presenting of the colors by the Ocoee Police and Ocoee Fire departments' honor guards, the pledge of allegiance led by Commissioner Richard Firstner, the national anthem sung by Ocoee resident Sherri Gladney, and musical selections from the Ocoee Middle wind ensemble.
Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen introduced keynote speaker Barron Mills, a retired Marine Corps major, who then gave a moving address. Attendees afterwards followed elected officials, escorted by the honor guards, to the city’s memorial site. The honor guards raised the flag while Marcus Jiao, from Ocoee High School, played “Taps.”
Refreshments were served in the Lakeshore Center immediately following the ceremony.