Honoring Veterans
The City of Sanibel hosted its annual Veterans Day program at City Hall. As people were seated, patriotic music by the Sanibel Community Band, under the direction of Maestro Donald Knowland, filled the air.
“As a community, Sanibel recognizes the tremendous sacrifices each of our veterans has made to protect the freedom of us all,” said City Manager Judie Zimomra. “The city has historically hosted a Veterans Day program so that we can say a personal ‘thank you’ to our citizens who have served our country.”
Ted Tyson, chairman of Sanibel Veterans Group, welcomed the crowd before Douglas Quelch, Lee Coast Chapter of Military Officers Association of America, gave an introduction, as well as led in the National Anthem. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Jacob Goodman, president of the Sanibel School National Jr. Honor Society after the raising of the flag by Sanibel Police Department Color Guard, led by Sgt. Anthony Thompson.
Sanibel Mayor Kevin Ruane gave remarks before special guest Lucas Century spoke about his work on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. A Veterans Day address was given by Rear Admiral Roger Triftshauser, DC, USNR, Ret. Two Sanibel School students presented their winning essays and student Sarah Adler was given recognition of achievement.
Gary Eertmoed and Steve Mondora, members of the Community Band, played Taps and In Memoriam before Quelch closed the program.
Following the program, the crowd was invited to Bailey’s Outreach in the parking lot of Bailey’s Shopping Center, which had a great turn out.