|
NOTE: The City is sharing this information on behalf of Councilman Pickett.
This is from Councilman Pickett's monthly newsletter, which residents can sign up for at: www.cityofpsl.com/newsletter
| |
Welcome to the Veterans' View | |
Honoring Our Heroes: War Memorial Ceremonies
In the solemn setting of war memorials, we come together to pay our respects and remember the fallen heroes who sacrificed everything. These ceremonies, often held on significant dates or during memorial dedications, reflect the local history, culture, and style. From the posting of colors to wreath laying and moments of reflection, each element holds profound meaning.
For those seeking support, American troops, local veterans organizations, and foreign troops can contribute to the occasion's solemnity. Be mindful of the weather and consider translations to ensure inclusivity. Let us not forget that the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 grants veterans the choice to salute the American flag during these moving ceremonies.
| |
|
According to History.com, The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, marking the official end of World War I. Nonetheless, the armistice date of November 11, 1918, remained in the public imagination as the date that marked the end of the conflict.
One year later, in November 1919, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. The day’s observation included parades and public gatherings, as well as a brief pause in business and school activities at 11 a.m.
On November 11, 1921, an unidentified American soldier killed in the war was buried at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. On the same day the previous year, unidentified soldiers were laid to rest at Westminster Abbey in London and at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
On June 4, 1926, Congress passed a resolution that the “recurring anniversary of [November 11, 1918] should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations,” and that the president should issue an annual proclamation calling for the observance of Armistice Day.
By that time, 27 state legislatures had made November 11 a legal holiday. An act approved May 13, 1938, made November 11 a legal Federal holiday, “dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice Day.'”
There are no U.S. national holidays because the states retain the right to designate their own, and the government can only designate holidays for federal employees and for the District of Columbia. In practice, however, states almost always follow the federal lead.
Source: Click here
| |
From Armistice Day to Veterans Day | |
|
American effort during World War II saw the greatest mobilization of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force in the nation’s history (more than 16 million people); some 5.7 million more served in the Korean War.
In 1954, after lobbying efforts by veterans’ service organizations, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the 1938 act that had made Armistice Day a holiday, striking the word “Armistice” in favor of “Veterans.” President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954. From then on, November 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.
The next development in the story of Veterans Day unfolded in 1968 when Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which sought to ensure three-day weekends for federal employees—and encourage tourism and travel—by celebrating four national holidays (Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Columbus Day) on Mondays.
The observation of Veterans Day was set as the fourth Monday in October. The first Veterans Day under the new law was Monday, October 25, 1971; confusion ensued, as many states disapproved of this change, and continued to observe the holiday on its original date.
In 1975, after it became evident that the actual date of Veterans Day carried historical and patriotic significance to many Americans, President Gerald Ford signed a new law returning the observation of Veterans Day to November 11th beginning in 1978. If November 11 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the federal government observes the holiday on the previous Friday or the following Monday, respectively. Government offices are closed on Veterans Day.
Source: Click here
| |
|
The City of Port St. Lucie will honor Veterans Day on
Saturday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park,
2100 SE Veterans Memorial Parkway.
The guest speaker will be Chris Barnes.
| |
|
In the United States, an official wreath-laying ceremony is held each Veterans Day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, while parades and other celebrations are held in states around the country.
Veterans Day is not to be confused with Memorial Day—a common misunderstanding, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Memorial Day (the fourth Monday in May) honors American service members who died in service to their country or because of injuries incurred during battle, while Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans—living or dead—but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.
Did you know? Red poppies, a symbol of World War I from their appearance in the beloved poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae, are sold in Canada and the United Kingdom on Remembrance Day to raise money for veterans or worn in the lapel as a tribute.
Source: Click here
| |
S.B. 172 - Verification of Eligibility for
Homestead Exemption
| |
|
S.B. 172 - Verification of Eligibility for Homestead Exemption, and specifically request that you consider co-sponsoring this important legislation for Florida’s Disabled Veterans. S.B. 172 would increase the home-buying power of Florida’s Disabled Veterans by tens of thousands of dollars, without adding any financial burden on the State. Currently, Disabled Veterans with a 100% Disability rating are exempt from Real Estate Taxes in Florida, a deserving benefit.
However, the current system requires them to apply for this exemption only after they have taken ownership of their homes. This timing issue creates a situation where their exemption status has not been verified during the mortgage underwriting process, resulting in these taxes being counted against them when qualifying for a mortgage, even though it is not a long-term liability.
S.B. 172 addresses this timing issue and allows 100% Disabled Veterans to apply for their exemption after going under contract to purchase a home and receive approval subject to taking ownership of the home. This adjustment ensures that Florida's Disabled Veterans can fully access the benefits they have already earned when they need them most.
By supporting Senate Bill 172, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our Disabled Veterans, helping them become homeowners without imposing any financial strain on the State of Florida. This legislation is a testament to our commitment to honoring and supporting those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.
| |
|
Advancing Breast Health: Innovative Technology for West Palm Beach Women Veterans
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – The West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System (WPBVAHCS) is proud to announce a new milestone for Women Veteran care with the introduction of Stereotactic Breast Biopsy.
Stereotactic breast biopsy uses mammography – a specific type of breast imaging that uses low-dose x-rays — to help locate a breast abnormality and remove a tissue sample for examination under a microscope. It is less invasive than surgical biopsy, leaves little to no scarring, and can be
an excellent way to evaluate calcium deposits or tiny masses that are not visible on ultrasound.
“This is another example of our commitment to expand programs and services to meet the needs of all Veterans,” said WPBVAHCS Chief of Staff Dr. Ronald Williams. “Women Veterans are our fastest growing patient population, which is why we must continue to evolve and adapt.”
The unveiling of this new service comes during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With this technology available in-house, the VA can offer a wider range of access for breast health by minimizing wait times and allowing for convenience and continuity of care within the VA healthcare
system.
To learn more about same-day mammography services, new advancements in health care or to speak to an expert, contact the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System Public Affairs Office at 561-422-8607.
Source: Click here
| |
|
If you’re a motorcycle rider and are looking for a fun day out with other cycle enthusiasts, come join in the Poker Run being held by Rolling Thunder Chapter 6.
The event take place on Nov. 19, 2023. Sign in will start at Charlie’s Bar and Grill in Stuart, Fl. starting at 10:30 a.m. and will end at Fysh Bar & Grill in Stuart, Fl.
Proceeds will benefit the Gulf Iraq Afghanistan Veterans Association and the POW/MIA Chair of Honor Program. We hope to see you there.
| |
Join us in shaping the future of Port St. Lucie! | |
|
We're seeking dedicated individuals to fill essential board and committee positions. These voluntary roles play a crucial role in enhancing our city.
If you're ready to give back and make a difference, apply for a position on one of our committees, from the Citizen Advisory Committee to the Public Art Advisory Board.
Join us today to help guide our city's progress. Apply by November 15, 2023! To learn more visit www.CityofPSL.com/Committees.
| | |
Patriots Scholarship Ball | |
|
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the Patriots Scholarship Ball! Support the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) cadets from Saint Lucie and Martin County High Schools.
Enjoy a delightful evening with dinner, dancing, and a cash bar. Formal attire is preferred, and suit jackets or coats are required. Come together to support these remarkable JROTC cadets and make a difference in our community.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Santa Lucia River Club, 3325 Ballantrae Blvd, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952.
For event information, contact Tom O’Bra at 954-997-9271 or Bobbie Williams at 540-429-2057. Tickets are $125 per person.
| | |
Local Veterans Organizations | |
|
To learn more about resources for veterans, please visit any of the following links:
Mailing Address: 5914 N.W. Bayou Court. Port Saint Lucie, Florida 34986
| |
VA established this registry in 2014 to put data to work for Veterans and help us better understand the potential health effects of exposure to airborne hazards during military service. By joining the registry, you can provide information that will help VA provide better care to all Veterans. To learn more, click the button below. | |
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Health Issues
| |
|
File a claim in any of these ways:
| |
Indian River State College and the Office of U.S. Congressman Brian Mast announced Operation Sacred Legacy, an effort to provide as many local veteran interviews as possible for the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. To learn more, click the button below. | |
|
Tell us what you think of this newsletter.
We're here to serve you.
Please email me at David.Pickett@cityofpsl.com or call me
at 772-871-5159 with your comments or questions.
Sincerely,
| David Pickett, District 2 Councilman | | | | |
