Veterans and first responders were honored recently in appreciation of their defense of the U.S. Constitution at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville.
The luncheon program sold out well in advance as people responded with early reservation to personally express appreciation to those who pledged to defend the Constitution. The event kicked off the weeklong National Constitution Week. For Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, schools and government agencies are required to provide educational programs on the Constitution.
The highlight of the Jacksonville event was the “The Constitution is Part of My Uniform” lecture by U.S. Navy veteran Kenneth F. Wood III, who retired in Jacksonville. The topic of Wood’s speech was well received and vigorously applauded by all in attendance.
Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Ryman Shoaf was the emcee, and the Black Creek Young Marines presented colors. The National Anthem was sung by 15-year-old Lexi Harmon.
Two wreaths in memory of the late Charlie Kirk were delivered to the event by donors. Kirk was an internationally known defender of the U. S. Constitution.
U.S. Navy veteran Patrick Taylor said, “Guest speaker Kenneth F. Wood III was a powerhouse of constitutional knowledge and helped to put the concepts into personally accessible nuggets of gold. He was able to show how the U.S. Constitution is the answer to many of the current issues plaguing our society today.”