November 2011

Take Time to Remember America’s Heroes this Season

Paying tribute to veterans is something you can do throughout the year. In Florida, there are several memorials and museums where you can reflect upon the courage of America’s brave servicemen and women. Here are some places to check out:
 
The Armed Forces Military Museum (Largo): This 35,000-square-foot space houses more than 12 permanent exhibits that help create an “interactive, dynamic, exciting and informative way to view and experience military history.” This multi-sensory museum experience will put you right into replicas of World War I trenches, German village outposts and even Rose's Bar – the Korean War-era watering hole of M*A*S*H fame. After you've immersed yourself in the exhibits, meditate and pay your respects on a stroll through the peaceful Memorial Walk and Garden. The Armed Forces Military Museum earned the title of 'Best Museum' in both 2009 and 2011 from Tampa Bay magazine. Admission is free for active and retired military personnel with ID, and special discounted rates apply for all military dependents as well. Visit www.armedforcesmuseum.com for more information.
 
Veterans Memorial Park (Pensacola): In the winter of 1987, the “Moving Wall” exhibit arrived in Pensacola,Florida. The exhibit is a half-size replica of theWashington, D.C. Vietnam Veterans Memorial and makes stops across the country. When it came time for the exhibit to relocate, the vets concluded the area was in need of a permanent monument to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War. The Vietnam Veterans of Northwest Florida (VVNF) held fundraising events over the next five years, and in 1992, the Wall South memorial was complete. The black granite wall is inscribed with the names of the 58,219 men and women who were either killed or missing in action during the war. The rest of Veterans Memorial Park honors those who have served in other American wars including World War I and World War II. Visitors can also admire the Submarine Lifeguard League monument and the UH1 “Huey” helicopter. Vice Presidents Dan Quayle and Al Gore are among the 750,000 people who have visited this peaceful place since its dedication. For more information on Veterans Memorial Park, visit www.pensacolawallsouth.org.
 
Florida Medal of Honor Wall (Tallahassee): In 2000, the Florida Medal of Honor Wall was dedicated to Floridians who have received the Congressional Medal of Honor for valor in action against an enemy force. The wall is located within the State Capitol Building, which offers several other opportunities to learn about America’s veterans. Visitors can also pay their respects at the Combat Wounded Veterans Memorial on the grounds of the Capitol. For photos of the Medal of Honor Wall dedication, check out www.floridavets.org/memorials/mohwall.htm. You can get info about the State Capitol’s exhibits and tours at www.flhistoriccapitol.gov. 
 
Immerse yourself in an interactive museum exhibit or observe a moment of silence at a peaceful monument. Florida continuously celebrates individuals who protect America’s freedoms.