Sanford’s Memorial Day parade was fantastic.
I usually do not feel much in my chest or get teary-eyed during attendance at such functions, but Monday I was bursting with pride for the effort displayed by Sanford residents and guests, the parade participants, and the overwhelming spirit displayed by one and all.
As my wife and I stood at the corner of 1st Street and Park Avenue, where the parade turned to the toward the waterfront, I had to gulp several times and fight off the urge to break out bawling for joy.
Seriously, I stood there fighting off a need, seldom felt in a crowd of people, to just bawl my eyes out in gratitude for all of God's people in attendance for the stupendous and such meaningful showing for this, the only parade in Central Florida.
Thank you, citizens of this great city. You need to jut out your chin and chest in pride for this tremendous display on the behalf of our fallen military and civilian heroes of all conflicts fought here and across the seas.
For all of my 28 years of naval service, where I saw little appreciation shown – most specifically during the Vietnam era – for the military of our country, I salute you and thank you one and all.
Warren Jennison
Sanford