By Heather Bennett Eye
When it comes to the Fourth of July, many of us think about a day off from work, a day at the beach, picnics or fireworks. My favorite memory of July 4th along 30A is being at the beach at dusk, families up and down the beach as far as the eye could see, fireworks overhead lighting up the water from Destin to Panama City Beach and everywhere in between, the sand soft between my toes and the warm Gulf water lapping my ankles.
But our Independence Day means so much more. America was forged as a nation built on principles of equality and self-governance. The colonies fought for these values, and at the dawn of a new era, with a declaration of determination and resilience, they birthed a path to freedom.
For almost 250 years, brave men and women have fought to protect that freedom. Through each conflict and challenge, the valor and commitment of America’s service members have forged a legacy that continues to inspire and protect this great nation and our values.
While you celebrate our Independence Day this July 4th, please remember our Veterans, whose bravery and selflessness have been the cornerstone of our nation. We’re proud of the many military members and their families that call The Emerald Coast home, and when you see a Veteran, be sure to thank them for their service.
In honor of our service members, we’ve listed some local organizations dedicated to to supporting our Veterans, because freedom isn’t free.
Healing Paws for Warriors: A local veteran-founded/ veteran-led 501(c)(3) that provides rescue to trained service dogs to combat veterans faced with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Military Sexual Trauma (MST) at no cost to the veteran with continued support, helping to reduce the statistic of veteran suicide and increase self and family health and wellness. https://www.healingpawsforwarriors.org
Veterans 48: A 501c3 non-profit organization, whose goal is to build modified bikes for wounded Veterans, founded by local Air Force Veteran Jeff Powell. https://www.facebook.com/veterans48/
Shield of Faith Missions: A non-profit organization serving our Nation’s warriors. The purpose of SOF Missions is to combat the veteran suicide crisis by restoring purpose, resiliency, and life after service. SOF Missions was founded in 2011 by Dr. Damon Friedman, an Air Force Special Operator who served four combat tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. https://sofmissions.org
Pawsitive Love Foundation: A 501(c)3 corporation founded in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, by South Walton local Steve Kotowski. Pawsitive Love Foundation is dedicated to providing properly trained Service Dogs to children and Veterans. https://www.pawsitivelovefoundation.org
For additional Veterans Services please visit: https://www.co.walton.fl.us/127/Veteran-Services-Office
Author: Sowal Editor
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