Honoring the Fallen: Memorial Day Ceremony at Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial Unites Community in Tribute

This Memorial Day weekend, the Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial in Homosassa, Florida, served as the poignant backdrop for a deeply moving ceremony held in honor of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Under clear skies and with a heartfelt spirit of gratitude, members of the community gathered to reflect, remember, and recommit to preserving the memory of our nation’s heroes.

The ceremony was masterfully led by Commander Richard Hunt of the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), who served as the Master of Ceremonies. Commander Hunt’s solemn and dignified presence set the tone for the event, as his heartfelt words reminded those in attendance of the profound debt owed to those who gave their lives for our freedoms.

An opening prayer was delivered by Chaplain Troy Allen, also of Chapter 776 MOPH. His invocation invited attendees to reflect on the gravity of the occasion and the sacred duty of remembrance. The Lecanto High School JROTC Color Guard, under the direction of Senior Army Instructor LTC David Brown, presented the colors with precision and pride.

Citrus High School Choral Instructor John Edel provided a stirring rendition of the National Anthem. His powerful performance resonated through the crowd, anchoring the event in patriotism and unity.

The event featured a lineup of respected guest speakers who each shared personal reflections and expressions of gratitude. Citrus County Commissioner Holly Davis (District 5) spoke movingly about her deep respect for the military, highlighting the legacy of her own father, a Naval Aviator, and the enduring values of duty, service, and honor.

Stacie Worthington, Chairperson of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce, reflected on the depth of sacrifice made by service members and emphasized the importance of community in remembering them. Jaime Baize, the newly appointed principal of Homosassa Elementary School, offered her appreciation to the veterans present and to the broader community for continuing the tradition of honoring the fallen. She also shared her commitment to carrying that spirit forward in her new role.

Representing the Citrus County School District, Darrick Buettner, Director of Strategic Operations, delivered heartfelt remarks on the importance of instilling respect for military service in the next generation. He also expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organizations who made the event possible, including Jeremy Lewis, Rick Wolfolk, Jake Jacobs, Diedra Newton, Dr. Al Balk, Sheriff David Vincent, the Homosassa Civic Club, and the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 MOPH.

A special moment in the ceremony came as Commander Hunt read the “Warrior’s Prayer,” a solemn invocation that spoke to the courage and sacrifice of America’s fallen warriors. The prayer served as a reminder that their service did not end in vain, and that their memory remains ever-present in the hearts of the community.

The ceremonial placement of the memorial wreath was carried out with reverence by outgoing Homosassa Elementary Principal Alice Harrell, incoming Principal Baize, and Commissioner Davis. This was followed by a traditional rifle salute conducted by the Citrus County Marine Corps League Honor Guard and the playing of Taps—one of the most recognizable and moving military honors.

John Edel returned to close the ceremony with a stirring performance of “All Gave Some / Some Gave All,” a tribute that captured the emotion and message of the day—no sacrifice is forgotten, and no life given in service is taken for granted.

The beauty and solemnity of the Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial owe much to the tireless work of Jeremy Fowler, whose generous donation of time, resources, and funding has transformed the site into a place of reflection and honor. His efforts have ensured that the memorial is not only a physical space, but a lasting symbol of gratitude and remembrance for generations to come.

Special recognition is also due to Darrick Buettner for his leadership in organizing the event. His dedication to honoring veterans, fostering community engagement, and coordinating with numerous civic and school groups played a crucial role in the ceremony’s success.

Finally, sincere thanks to Commander Richard Hunt and the members of the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 MOPH for their ongoing commitment to veterans and their families. Their leadership and presence make events like this both possible and profoundly meaningful.

In Old Homosassa this Memorial Day, a community came together not just to remember—but to promise never to forget.

No Comments »
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates