Florence Honors Local Heroes on Veterans Day
Florence, SC — On a beautiful sunny afternoon filled with gratitude and honor, the city came together to pay tribute to its brave veterans. On November 11, 2024, the Florence Veterans Park Committee embarked on a heartfelt mission, adding the names of 21 Pee Dee-area veterans to the revered Florence Veterans Park Wall of Honor. While the event was initially set to take place at Veterans Park, a little rain in the morning nudged everyone indoors to the Florence Center. But the drizzles did nothing to dampen the spirits of those present.
Ceremony Filled with Emotion and Pride
Gathered at the Florence Center, veterans, families, and community members shared in a ceremony that blended solemnity with celebration. Lt. Col. Jaime Zambrano, the South Carolina future operations director for the Joint Forces Headquarters-Air at McEntire Joint National Guard Base in Eastover, took the stage to express profound thanks to the veterans for their service to America. He also acknowledged the invaluable support that families provide during challenging times, especially when loved ones are stationed overseas.
“Thank you for your sacrifices and for the strength you show,” Zambrano remarked, highlighting the importance of resilience in military families. Additionally, he shed light on the growing significance of the U.S. Space Force, underscoring how military operations continue to evolve.
Florence 1 Schools Recognized
A highlight of the afternoon was the announcement made by Tremekia Priester, chair of the South Carolina Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission. She proudly declared the Florence 1 School District as a Purple Star School District—an initiative recognizing schools that support military families. Superintendent Richard O’Malley was all smiles as he listened to Priester’s announcement, which marks a significant achievement for the district and its commitment to serving military children.
A Growing Legacy of Valor
The Florence Veterans Park Wall of Honor now boasts over 900 veterans who either hail from the Pee Dee area or have family ties here. This year’s honorees bring the rich tapestry of military service to life, representing all ranks and backgrounds. According to Barry Wingard, chairman of the Veterans Park Committee, the new names join an impressive roster that includes everyone from buck privates to four-star generals, along with the likes of James Elliott Williams, the most decorated enlisted man in U.S. Navy history.
A Musical Touch
The program also provided an uplifting performance by the Crusaders Youth Choir from All Saints Episcopal Day School, adding an emotional layer to the event that resonated with attendees young and old. Their melodic voices filled the room, a reminder of the hope and unity that veterans’ sacrifices inspire within the community.
Meet the Honorees
As the ceremony reached its poignant moments, the names of the 21 newly honored veterans were read aloud with pride:
- Ronald W. Anderson
- Angelo Thomas Bakis
- Michael C. Baxley
- Harry E. Bonnoitt, Jr.
- Jimmy W. Boyd
- David C. Bryant
- David H. Bryant
- Harry B. Burchstead
- Phylis Jean Burgh
- Michael B. Calcutt
- Rudolph E. Cockfield, Jr.
- Rudolph E. Cockfield, Sr.
- Henry E. Harrison
- Rex B. Hobgood
- James L. Jones
- Kenneth L. Kirby
- Tony Leroy McGee
- Roderick L. McWhite
- John T. Rabun
- Mason Bacot Rogers
- Zakiyyah Moir
- Velvet-Loves
This heartfelt tribute underscores Florence’s dedication to honoring those who have served our nation. With every name added to the Wall of Honor, the stories and sacrifices of local heroes continue to be shared, ensuring that their legacies live on in the hearts of the community.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the Florence Center, everyone left with a renewed sense of appreciation and camaraderie, looking forward to next year’s celebration.
