YMCA of South Florida Honors Military Community with 11th Annual Veterans Day Event Featuring Navy SEAL Robert O'Neill
The YMCA of South Florida's 11th annual Veterans Day Salute brings together community leaders and veterans while highlighting the organization's significant financial support and services for military families in a state with the nation's third-largest veteran population.
The YMCA of South Florida, in partnership with the City of Weston, will host its 11th annual Veterans Day Salute on Friday, November 7 from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Bonaventure Town Center Club in Weston. This year's event features keynote speaker Robert O'Neill, a decorated Navy SEAL veteran whose military career includes participation in more than 400 missions worldwide, including the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates and the operation that brought down Osama bin Laden.
The significance of this annual event extends beyond ceremonial recognition, particularly in Florida where nearly 10% of the nation's 19.1 million veterans reside, making it the third largest veteran population in the United States according to Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs data. This demographic reality underscores the importance of sustained community support for military families throughout South Florida.
YMCA of South Florida President and CEO Sheryl A. Woods emphasized the organization's commitment, stating that celebrating Veterans Day remains special for the institution as it honors both current and former military personnel and their families. The event represents what Woods described as an extraordinary celebration of the brave individuals who serve the country.
The YMCA's military connections in South Florida date back to World War I, establishing a long-standing tradition of support that has evolved into substantial financial assistance. Over the past six years, the organization has provided more than $860,000 in financial support to military members through various programs and services.
Beyond the annual recognition event, the YMCA offers comprehensive military benefits including specialized membership opportunities that allow families to spend quality time together, connect with other military families, and access the organization's full range of offerings in a supportive environment. Additional military-focused initiatives include employment and volunteer opportunities, facility usage for training purposes, health and wellness seminars, and cross-promotion of shared resources.
The Veterans Day Salute, presented by Milner Technologies, expects more than 500 community leaders and veterans to attend the breakfast celebration. All veterans in attendance will receive special gifts including challenge coins, symbolizing the community's appreciation for their service.
Major sponsors supporting the event include Keynote Sponsor Fision by Hotwire Communications, Partnership Sponsor The City of Weston, and Host Sponsor Bonaventure Town Center Club. Platinum-level sponsors comprise Brown & Brown Insurance, Fifth Third Bank, Rick Case Automotive Group, Spirit Airlines and Verizon, while Gold Sponsors include AeroEngineSolutions, Community Associations Institute Southeast Florida Chapter, Cole, Scott & Kissane and UKG. Additional silver and bronze sponsors represent diverse business sectors demonstrating broad community support for military recognition efforts. For additional information about the event and the YMCA's veteran services, visit https://ymcasouthflorida.org/veterans-day-salute.