Citrus County Honors Heroes at the Nineteenth Annual Purple Heart Ceremony

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the combat-wounded patriots of Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Military Order of the Purple Heart, hosted the 19th Annual Purple Heart Ceremony at the Citrus County Auditorium. This solemn and powerful event paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Purple Heart recipients, reinforcing the community’s unwavering support for veterans and their families.

A Ceremony Steeped in Honor and Tradition

Chapter 776 Commander Richard Hunt once again served as the master of ceremonies, leading the event with dignity and reverence. He was joined by Chapter 776 Adjutant Curt Ebitz, Chaplain Troy Allen, Vice Commander Gary Bain, and Citrus County School District representative and Chapter 776 Honorary Life Member, Darrick Buettner. This year’s program was dedicated to former Chapter 776 Commander Richard (Rick) Allen, further emphasizing the personal connections and deep respect within the veteran community.

Adding to the ceremony’s sense of tradition and respect, the Lecanto Army JROTC color guard presented the colors, standing as a symbol of honor and dedication.

Music and Tribute

The Nature Coast Community Band, under the expert direction of Kathy Thompson, provided a stirring musical prelude and accompaniment throughout the ceremony. Their powerful renditions of the National Anthem and “God Bless the USA” set an emotional tone for the day. Guest vocalists Drema Leonard and Robert Lowden added even more depth and meaning with their performances.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Major John McGee, a South Boston native and Citrus County resident, recently inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame. U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis delivered a heartfelt tribute of Major McGee, sharing a speech he had previously presented on the U.S. House floor, which is now part of the official U.S. Congressional Record. This powerful moment underscored the national significance of the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients.

A Personal Perspective on Sacrifice

One of the most poignant moments of the ceremony came from Nancy Weaver, widow of Aaron A. Weaver and author of American Soldier. Her deeply personal message provided an intimate glimpse into the sacrifices endured by military families. Following her speech, their daughter, Savannah Weaver, read the epilogue she wrote for the book, adding another layer of emotion and reflection to the event. If you haven’t read the book, please get a copy. You can get a copy on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/American-Soldier-Nancy-C-Weaver/dp/B0D7QPCFXD.

Honoring Veterans Through Education

Darrick Buettner reinforced the Citrus County School District’s commitment to veterans, stating, “Veterans are the real heroes,” and affirming that “Citrus Schools care about veterans.” He highlighted the district’s distinction as a Florida Purple Star School of Distinction, proudly noting that all 23 Citrus County schools have earned this designation. Each school also has a dedicated Purple Heart liaison, ensuring that veterans and military families receive continued support and recognition.

A particularly moving tribute came in the form of memorial displays created by each Citrus County school. These displays, honoring veterans with personal connections to students and staff—fathers, brothers, grandfathers, and other family members—lined the auditorium’s outer walls. After the ceremony, these heartfelt tributes will return to their respective schools, serving as ongoing reminders of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. (Follow this link to album of School Displays – https://photos.app.goo.gl/Dqbwuc3SjU7vaQ1x8)

A Salute to the Armed Forces

One of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony was the annual Armed Forces Salute. As the Nature Coast Community Band performed the official songs of each military branch, veterans and their spouses stood in recognition of their service, while a representative from each branch of the Armed Forces proudly carried and waved their flag.

The ceremony concluded with the solemn laying of the wreath, led by Chapter 776 Vice Commander Gary Bain and honored guests, followed by a prayer for the fallen delivered by Chaplain Troy Allen. The final tribute—a rifle salute and the playing of Taps by the Citrus Detachment 819 Marine Corps League—provided a powerful and deeply moving conclusion to a day dedicated to remembrance and honor.

A Community United in Gratitude

The success of this annual event is made possible in part by the unwavering support of the Citrus County School District, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert, along with the Citrus County School Board. Special thanks are extended to Darrick Buettner, Director of Specialty Programs for Citrus County Schools; Dr. Al Balk, Supervisor of Instructional Materials; Holli Herndon, CTE Specialist; and Diedra Newton, District Assistant, among many others who contributed to the event’s organization and execution, and played a key role in ensuring its success.

The Citrus County School District is immensely proud to be not only a Purple Heart Entity but also the first school district in the state of Florida—and the nation—to earn this recognition. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring the “Proud Legacy of the Purple Heart” and supporting Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 in its mission to recognize and celebrate combat-wounded veterans.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Military Order of the Purple Heart; Commander Richard Hunt; Adjutant Curt Ebitz; Chaplain Troy Allen; the Nature Coast Community Band; and all those who dedicated their time and efforts to making this ceremony a meaningful and memorable event.

God bless our Purple Heart honorees, our veterans and their families, our military and their families, our school district, and our great nation. The legacy of the Purple Heart will continue to be honored and cherished in Citrus County, ensuring that the sacrifices of our brave men and women are never forgotten.

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