Fernandina Beach and Nassau County honor Veterans

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

Reporter - News Analyst

Fernandina Beach and Nassau County residents turned out in force Friday morning to honor the nation's veterans.  Under clear and sunny skies veterans of all service branches who served from World War II to the present marched along side their family, friends and  supporters in the annual Fernandina Beach Veterans Day Parade.  Waving flags provided by American Legion Post 54 and St. Michael's Men's Club, bystanders lined Ash and Centre Streets to express their appreciation to Americans who have served in conflicts dating back as far as the American Revolution.

Vice Mayor Robin Lentz and family

Fire trucks, the Sheriff's car and elected officials preceded the Fernandina Beach High School Marching Band.  Joining the parade were units representing auxiliary organizations, Boy and Cub Scouts, and scores of veterans who marched,  drove  motorcycles, and waved from floats, convertibles and other motorized conveyances.  Fort Clinch honored Spanish American War vets, while other patriotic organizations honored veterans of the American Revolution and the Civil War.

Fernandina Beach City Commissioner Len Kreger and City Manager Dale Martin

Many children participated in the marching units as well, in some cases in military costume; in others, dressed in their karate school uniforms or marching band gear.  There were even two Uncle Sams in Friday's parade.

This year's attendance appeared to outstrip that of previous years.  After the final unit passed by, the crowd dispersed slowly, having enjoyed the opportunity to combine a patriotic observance with enjoyment of perfect fall weather.

Fernandina Beach High School Marching Band

Fernandina Beach High School vets

American Legion Post 54

St. Michael's Men's Club vets

The youngest parade participants

And what would a Fernandina Beach Parade be without the Shriners?