Calendar
Our Calendar is a place to find upcoming events that Rolling Thunder® Inc., Florida Chapter 1 may participate in. It is also a great resource to find other veteran activities. If you, or your organization would like to publish your special events on our calendar, just click here, or on the "Contact" menu item on the left, fill out the form and hit the 'submit' button.
2019
2020 events are available HERE
Note: Events preceded by a RED asterisk (*) are official Chapter 1 events.
* January 6, 2019 - 8:00 - 11:00 AM. Fundraising breakfast at VFW Post 4206; Dairy Road, Melbourne
* January 12, 2019 - 0900. Wreath removal.
Stage: Sam’s Club, 450 Townsend Rd, Cocoa, FL 32926. Safety Green Shirt and Vest.
KSU at 09:15 for movement to Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US-1, Mims, FL 32754 .
Stage: Sam’s Club, 450 Townsend Rd, Cocoa, FL 32926. Safety Green Shirt and Vest.
KSU at 09:15 for movement to Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US-1, Mims, FL 32754 .
January 19, 2019 - 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Key Lime Pie Festival in Veterans Memorial Center Park, Merritt Island.
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8th Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival
Event opens to the public at 10:00 a.m. Veterans Memorial Park 400 Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island, Florida 32952 $10.00 Adult Admission * January 26, 2019 - 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Central Brevard Stand Down Cocoa Armory - 308 N Fiske Blvd, Cocoa, FL 32922 Organizational meeting at the Veterans Memorial Center, December 6th @ 5:00 PM As always we need volunteers and donations to make this a great success. Here is a short list of the items needed: Eyeglasses (all kinds including sunglasses and prescription) Towels, washcloths Shampoo (small and large sizes) Soap (small and large sizes) Socks (men and women all sizes) Underwear (men and women all sizes) Male and female hygiene products Work boots (sizes 9 - 12) Batteries If you'd like to make a donation, either drop your donations off at the Merritt Island Veteran Memorial Center and be sure to mark it for stand down or contact Donn Weaver (321) 613-2403, and I'll make arrangements with you. We need volunteers including barbers, hair stylists, manicurists. Please attend one of the meetings on the attached flyer for more information. Thank you |
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* January 27, 2019 - 1:00 PM. Rolling Thunder® Inc. Florida Chapter 1 Board of Directors meeting. LOCATION CHANGE
* January 27, 2019 - 2:00 p.m. Rolling Thunder® Inc., Florida Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting. LOCATION CHANGE: 200 S BANANA RIVER DRIVE, Merritt Island, FL 32952. The public is invited.
February 1, 2019 - 1500 Hours. Practice for MIAP mission #18 at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery - for volunteers. Please see below:
* February 2, 2019 - 10:00 - 11:30. Mission #18 Missing in America Project - FL - for 25 veterans and spouses whose Abandoned Cremains will finally be laid to rest at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Scottsmoor (1000- 1130). NOTE: This is the third such ceremony since June 2018 to provide a dignified burial for Cremains left for decades in area funeral homes as abandoned. Check the miap.us web site for more information or contact Chip Hanson or Donn Weaver to volunteer as Pall Bearers or learn more.
* February 2, 2019 - 10:00 - 11:30. Mission #18 Missing in America Project - FL - for 25 veterans and spouses whose Abandoned Cremains will finally be laid to rest at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Scottsmoor (1000- 1130). NOTE: This is the third such ceremony since June 2018 to provide a dignified burial for Cremains left for decades in area funeral homes as abandoned. Check the miap.us web site for more information or contact Chip Hanson or Donn Weaver to volunteer as Pall Bearers or learn more.
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* February 3, 2019 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM - First annual Veterans Memorial Center Four Immortal Chaplains Ceremony in the Plaza. The public is invited as we remember the Four Chaplains and their sacrifice on the same date in 1943 — 66 years ago. This ceremony honors the Immortal Four Army Chaplains of different religions who were killed in WWII when their ship was sunk and they gave all they had to save others.
February 17, 2019 Sunday - 1:00 PM - American Legion Post 189 will be honoring the 4 Chaplains Ceremony at Riverview Park, US 1 & County Road 512, in Sebastian.
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* February 7, 2019 - 3:00 PM - Cape Canaveral National Cemetery - Lane B. Re-Burial of Tuskegee Airman AAF/USAF Flight Officer Edwin Cowan and his spouse Theda. A special event to honor this veteran and his wife after an earlier burial on Merritt Island without military honors or markings. A Celebration of Life will be held by RSVP only at the Veterans Memorial Center later (1700-1900) hours. For the VMC event contact Donn Weaver (321-613-2403) or Chip Hanson for more information. Chapter 1 members stage at American Legion Post 1, Titusville at 2:00 PM. |
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February 19, 2019 - 0900 - 1100 hours, Veterans Memorial Center Library - Mobile Office Hours by the Office of Senator Marco Rubio. This event offers a direct veteran link to the Senator.
February 23 - 24, 2019 - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM - Strawberry Fest, Wickham Park, 2500 Parkway Dr, Melbourne, Florida.Family Fun & Festivities, Plant City Strawberries, Art & Crafts, Delicious Food, Free Bounce Houses, Strawberry Shortcake, Live Entertainment, Free Rock Painting, Chocolate Covered Strawberries, Free Strawberry Relay, Strawberry Fudge, Pony Rides, Strawberry Wine Slush Mixes, Pie Eating Contest, Face Painting, Free Hula Hoop Contest, Strawberry Ice Cream, Free Petting Farm, Berry Cute Baby Contest, Free Sack Races, Train Rides, Free Corn Hole, Rock Climbing Wall, Yummy Treats & Much More!
Admission $6, Kids 2 & Under Free. $1 OFF ADMISSION! Bring a canned good for discount. Benefits the South Brevard Sharing Center.
Admission $6, Kids 2 & Under Free. $1 OFF ADMISSION! Bring a canned good for discount. Benefits the South Brevard Sharing Center.
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March 2 - 3, 2019 - 53rd Annual Grant Seafood Festival,Grant Community Center, 4580 1st Street, Grant FL 32949. Festival policy: NO PETS, NO COOLERS, NO POP-UP TENTS OR CANOPIES, NO UMBRELLAS, NO OVERNIGHT PARKING. Free admission, free parking, over 125 crafters exhibiting, live continuous entertainment, along with a scrumptious menu of succulent seafood makes this a weekend no one wants to miss. |
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* March 9, 2019 - 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM — Last Naval Battle of the Revolutionary War Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Center. Relive history with great massing of colors and wreath laying sponsored by the Sons of the American Revolution. Contact Doug Bisset or Donn Weaver at the VMC (321) 453-1776, for more information. To read about the battle, click here. |
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* March 15 - 17, 2019 - 0900 - 1700 Hours daily. The 42nd Annual War Birds Air Show at Space Coast Regional Airport. Click on the flyer to a link for on-line tickets where a discount is offered. |
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March 16, 2019 - 0230 Hours - Space Coast Honor Flight escort. See "ON-GOING" for 2019 schedule.
March 16, 2019 - 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. "Active Duty Military and Veterans Appreciation Flight Line BBQ “ Hosted by Brevard County Sheriffs Office at Merritt Island Airport, 450 Manor Dr, Merritt Island, FL 32952. Veterans, Active Duty and Families welcome. Static Displays of all Sheriff Office Units, six helicopters and flyover. Contact Donn Weaver or Bob Doyle at 321-453-1776 for more details.
March 15, 2019 - High school JROTC scholarship applications are due. This is a joint program with VFW Post 4206, that awards two $750 scholarships to eligible high school seniors enrolled in their school's JROTC program.
* March 24, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Rolling Thunder Florida Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting, Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island. This meeting is open to the public, and all are invited. Please call to confirm time and place.
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March 29, 2019 - 10:00 AM - YOU, YOUR Family and YOUR Friends are invited to attend the dedication ceremony of the Historical and recently renovated, Chapel of the HIGH SPEED PASS. 6112 POW/MIA Memorial Parkway Jacksonville, Florida 32221 |
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* March 30, 2019 - 10:00 - 11:00 AM - Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 U.S. Highway 1, Scottsmoor, FL. "To thank and honor Vietnam veterans, including those held as prisoners of was (POW) or listed as missing in action (MIA), for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the Unites Dates, and to thank and honor the families of these veterans". In recognition and honor, the Vietnam Veterans Lapel Pin will be presented to our Vietnam and Vietnam era veterans. |
March 29, 2019 - 6:00 - 8:00 PM. American Legion Riders "All you can eat chicken dinner" at Post 81, 2909 S Harbor City Boulevard (US-1), Melbourne. 
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* March 30, 2019 - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Fundraising event at the Melbourne Air & Space Show. * March 31, 2019 - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Fundraising event at the Melbourne Air & Space Show. |
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* April 6, 2019 - 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Brevard Law Ride - Police Hall of Fame and Museum, 6350 Horizon Drive, Titusville, Florida 32780. Events include 50/50, BBQ, Bike Run, Live DJ, Live Music, Raffles, Vendors. This law enforcement escorted ride will go straight through the Kennedy Space Center. Proceeds from this event will be donated to The American Police Hall of Fame and Museum, Central FL COPS, National Law Enforcement Memorial and local families of fallen or injured officers. |
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* April 6, 2019 - Freedom Fest #2 - All Day - New Freedom Farm, 6118 Lithia Rd, Buchanan VA 24066. New Freedom Farm is planning the largest fund raising event in their history, and they need your help. The event will be RAIN, SNOW, SLEET OR SHINE (just like our troops serve) on Saturday, 6 April 2019. The Freedom Fest will have mustangs, veterans, a patriotic opening ceremony, 3 different music acts, vendors, food and fun. Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, and lots more! The cost is $10.00 per person which includes the raffle ticket for gift cards $750, $500, $250. You do not not need to be present to win. Children under 18 are free. They intend to pass additional details to those that are interested by emails. You can read more on their website www.newfreedomfarm.net, or their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/NewFreedomFarmVA/, or you can contact: Lois Dawn Fritz, RN, MSN US Navy Veteran Founder/Director New Freedom Farm, Inc. 501(c)(3) Healing Humans Through Horses newfreedomfarm2016@gmail.com 540-855-1158. |
* April 7, 2019 - 8:30(ish) - 11:00 AM - Chapter 1 fundraising breakfast sponsored by VFW Post #4206, Dairy Road.
* April 13 & 14, 2019 - 0800 - 1700 - Chapter 1 fundraiser, Walmart Super Center, 1500 E Merritt Island Causeway, Merritt Island, FL 32952.
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* April 19, 2019 - 5:00 PM until ? Enjoy a dinner and music by Pooz Blues , and enter to win a 50/50. Presented by VFW Post 4206, Dairy Road, Melbourne. The cost of the evening is $12. |
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April 27, 2019 - 0230 - Space Coast Honor Flight Escort. Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, FL
* April 28, 2019 - 1:00 PM - Chapter 1 Board of Directors Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island, FL
* April 28, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting. The public is invited to attend.
* April 28, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting. The public is invited to attend.
May 3, 2019 - American legion Post 81, 2909 South Harbor City Road (US1) Melbourne Fl.
Our Famous Surf and Turf Dinner (T Bone cooked to order and Shrimp Deep Fried or Sauteed) with all the fixings $14.00
Our Famous Surf and Turf Dinner (T Bone cooked to order and Shrimp Deep Fried or Sauteed) with all the fixings $14.00
* May 5, 2019 - KSU 10:00 AM - Traveling Vietnam Wall escort - Eastern Sate College, Cocoa Campus, 1519 Clearlake Road, Cocoa, FL 32922.
Please be advised that 4-wheel vehicles will now be allowed in the escort but please note the speed will only be 20 MPH and if you allow a large gap you will be told to pull over out of the escort.
Please be advised that 4-wheel vehicles will now be allowed in the escort but please note the speed will only be 20 MPH and if you allow a large gap you will be told to pull over out of the escort.
May 5, 2019 - After the Wall Escort, American Legion Post 81 will be having an Auction and after Escort party at the "Bunker". Good food and lots of things to auction.
*May 6, 2019 - 1800 hours at The Traveling Wall, Wickham Park - Wreath laying ceremony and kickoff of the Reunion.
May 8, 2019 - At the Reunion vendor area, American Legion Post 81 will be serving lunch and dinner through Sunday May 12 from 1200 - 2000 hours. We will be closing the Tent an Sunday at 1400 hours.
The menu for the lunch and dinner are:
Sliced Pork $6.00
Fried Bologna Sandwich (thick sliced) $6.00
St. Louis Ribs $8.00
Fried Chicken $8.00
All Meals are All You Can Eat and Include Baked Beans and Cole Slaw and free coffee
The reason we can charge such crazy low prices out at the reunion is from donations. So if you are out at our tent and notice the business's that help support us please support them.
Thank all of you for your support and "See You At The Wall". For God and Country.
The menu for the lunch and dinner are:
Sliced Pork $6.00
Fried Bologna Sandwich (thick sliced) $6.00
St. Louis Ribs $8.00
Fried Chicken $8.00
All Meals are All You Can Eat and Include Baked Beans and Cole Slaw and free coffee
The reason we can charge such crazy low prices out at the reunion is from donations. So if you are out at our tent and notice the business's that help support us please support them.
Thank all of you for your support and "See You At The Wall". For God and Country.
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* May 9 - 12, 2019 - Wickham Park - Vietnam and all veterans of Brevard, 32nd Annual Reunion. The Florida Veterans Reunion is one of the largest and longest running veterans reunions in the country. To download the AGENDA, click on the flyer on the left. * May 11, 2019 - 1:00 PM - Adjacent to the Moving Wall - Wickham Park, Melbourne - Rolling Thunder® Florida Chapter 1 will perform our Missing Man Table ceremony. Patriot Guard Riders will form a flag line, and other invited guests will be present.
May 11, 2019 - Also at 1:00 PM, there will be a Vietnam Welcome Home Pinning Ceremony for all Vietnam Era Vets behind the Moving Wall.
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May 18, 2019 - 0230 - Space Coast Honor Flight Escort. Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, FL
May 18, 2019 - 7:30 - 10:00 AM. Annual Navy League Veterans Breakfast at Applebee's on Merritt Island. Tickets $7.00 for great breakfast with all proceeds going to Navy League and Sea Cadet Causes.
May 18, 2019 - 7:30 - 12:00 PM. Armed Forces Day Rescue 5K at The Avenue Viera, with special events and awards. Email for more information runarmedforces5kday5k@gmail.com.
May 18, 2019 - 8:00 - 10:00 AM. Navy League Cape Canaveral Council Pancake Breakfast at Applebee’s, 100 Sykes Creek Pkwy Merritt Island. All you can eat $7 in advance from any Navy League or Sea Cadet Member.
May 21, 2019 - 9:00 - 11:00 AM. Mobile Office Hours by the Office of Senator Marco Rubio in the Library. This event offers a direct veteran link to the Senator.
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01/20/2019 - We have been informed that the Hyatt has sold out their allotment of Rolling Thunder rooms. Call everyday for any cancellations.
* May 26, 2019 - Memorial Day – Rolling Thunder XXXII Ride for Freedom. After 31 years of this annual tradition, 2019 will be the last demonstration ride in Washington, DC
Rolling Thunder® Inc. Host Hotel: Hyatt Regency Crystal City At Reagan National Airport 2799 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, VA 22202 Reservations: In-House 703-418-1234 / 9 am-4 pm Toll free: 1-888-421-1442 Refer to the group and meeting name (Rolling Thunder) Hotel Rates: King: $110 Plus tax Double: $110 Plus tax Triple: $135 Plus tax Quadruple: $160 Plus tax Parking: $15 per night for autos. Motorcycle parking is free. |
A one night room fee plus tax will be collected at time of booking. The deposit is fully refundable until April 23, 2019. After April 24, 2019 the deposit becomes non-refundable. The cutoff date to make reservations is April 24, 2019.
Although the final day to make reservations is April 24th, it does not mean there will be rooms available. Once their block for this event is sold out, you cannot get the Rolling Thunder rate. Reservation request will be based on hotel's availability at the hotel's prevailing rate. Please note that the room's book very quickly for this event. If you are planning on attending, book your room as soon as possible. |
Florida Chapter 1 plans to leave Brevard County on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, travel up I-95 and stop for the night in or around Lumberton, NC. We leave the next morning and arrive at the Hyatt around 3:00 PM. Friday is typically a sightseeing day - functions in the evening. Saturday can be as well, but Rolling Thunder® Inc. members have meetings to attend on Saturday evening. We depart the Hyatt for home the following Monday (Memorial Day Observed), although several riders may continue on elsewhere for vacations.
If you or your organization would like to ride with us, please send a note through our “contact” form.
Friday - May 26th - 6:00 PM - Blessing of the bikes; 9:00 - 10:00 PM Candle Light Vigil at the Vietnam Wall Memorial.
If you or your organization would like to ride with us, please send a note through our “contact” form.
Friday - May 26th - 6:00 PM - Blessing of the bikes; 9:00 - 10:00 PM Candle Light Vigil at the Vietnam Wall Memorial.
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* May 27, 2019 - 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island. Memorial Day Ceremony.
Keynote Speaker SFC Melvin Morris USA (Ret) Medal of Honor Recipient with Col Kurt Matthews of the USAF 920th Rescue Wing honor the families of three para- rescue jumpers killed in Iraq in March 2018 * May 27, 2019 - 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM - Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. Memorial Day Ceremony. America Responds is the theme. US Navy NOTU Honor Guard and ceremonial cannons along with Gold Star Parent keynote speakers and US Navy CAPT Robert Watts (Ret) as MC. A special Ceremony where now more than 8,500 veterans and spouses have been laid to honored rest. Note: Chapter 1 members unable to make the final Rolling Thunder "Ride for Freedom" in Washington, D.C. should attend at least one(1) of these two events. |
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May 27, 2019 - 1:00 - 2:00 PM. Shady Oaks Veteran Cemetery Re-dedication and Memorial Day Ceremony at the Cemetery in Melbourne off US Rte 1. More than 33 Veteran unmarked graves have been discovered and this Ceremony will launch the project to refurbish and honor those grave sites.
May 28, 2019 - 2:00 PM - Washington D.C. Harley-Davidson - Motorcycle Raffle Ticket Drawing.
June 2, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:30 PM. Island Quarter Auction at the Veterans Memorial Center. Sponsored by American Legion Aux Post 344. A combination of bingo, auction, raffle, fund raiser, direct sales and party. Contact Dorothy Walsh at VMC for more information.
* June 7, 2019 - 1:15 PM - Memorial Escort for Member Lloyd Camp and his family. Chapter members stage at the Sam's Club parking lot, 450 Townsend Rd, Cocoa, FL 32926. KSU 1:30 PM. A reception will follow at 200 S. Banana River Drive, Merritt Island. Members need to RSVP for the reception.
* June 8, 2019 - 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Fundraiser at Publix, 125 E Merritt Island Causeway, Merritt Island, FL 32952
June 22, 2019 - 0300 - Space Coast Honor Flight Escort. Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, FL
* June 23, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting. Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island,
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* July 4, 2019 - 10:00 - 11:20 AM - Joint Brevard County Sheriffs Office / Veterans Memorial Center First Annual Merritt Island Independence Day Parade. Participants to assemble at 8:30AM at Edgewood Jr/Sr School on Merritt Avenue on Merritt Island.
Parade will be a 1.7 mile route beginning at the school and ending at the Veterans Memorial Park. Floats, special vehicles and small town Americana on display. |
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* July 7, 2019 - 9:00 AM. Scholarship fundraising breakfast at VFW Post 4206. There will be a church service at 11:00 AM at the Veterans Church on the VFW property for those that would like to attend.
* July 28, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island
* July 31, 2019 - 1400 - 1600 hours. Island Health and Rehabilitation Center Veteran Recognition, 125 Alma Blvd., Merritt Island. Stage at 1340 hours at the Burger King, 1455 N Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32953. KSU at 13:45 hours for movement to the rehabilitation center.
Island Health and Rehabilitation Center is creating a wall of honor for their current long term resident veterans. They have asked Rolling Thunder FL Chapter 1 to participate. There will be refreshments and a small band to play the branch themes. RTFL1 will present each veteran with a button of his service branch and a Certificate of Appreciation.
Island Health and Rehabilitation Center is creating a wall of honor for their current long term resident veterans. They have asked Rolling Thunder FL Chapter 1 to participate. There will be refreshments and a small band to play the branch themes. RTFL1 will present each veteran with a button of his service branch and a Certificate of Appreciation.
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August 3, 2019 - 1300 hours. Celebration of Life ceremony for SSG Tommy Pechaceck, USMC. American Legion Post 163, 1795 N. Harbor City Blvd, Eau Gallie, Florida |
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August 11, 2019 - 2:00 - 3:30 PM. Purple Heart Day Ceremony and Brick Dedication of 10 members at Veterans Memorial Center in the Plaza and Gray Hall. Refreshments. For additional information contact VMC at (321) 613-2403 Donn Weaver, or Memorial Order of the Purple Heart officers Carl Miller or Pat Keane.
* August 24, 2019 - 0200 hours - Space Coast Honor Flight Escort. Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, Florida
* August 25, 2019 - 1300 hours - Chapter 1 closed Board of Directors Meeting, Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island
* August 25, 2019 - 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island. The public is invited.
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September 8, 2019 - 1000 hours. American Legion Riders Post 1, 1281 US-1, Titusville, FL 32796, (321) 269-9959, has their "We Don't Take a Knee Ride". Registration starts at 10:00 at the post. We are kicking off the NFL Football season by taking a ride instead. ALL PROFITS are going to Project Vet Relief. |
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September 10, 2019 - Traveling Wall motorcycle escort, Veterans Memorial Park, Ocala Florida. KSU 0900 hours. |
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* September 11, 2019 - 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM. Joint Veterans Memorial Center and 1013 Retired NYPD 9/11 Commemoration and Patriots Day Ceremony at the VMC and Veterans Memorial Park, Merritt Island, Florida. New 9/11 artifacts will be unveiled. Contact Donn Weaver, Special Projects Coordinator for more information. |
September 17, 2019 — 0900 - 1100. VMC Mobile Office Hours by the Office of Senator Marco Rubio in the Library. This event offers a direct veteran link to the Senator.
* September 19 - 21, 2019 - The Ride Home, Museum of Aviation, 1942 Heritage Blvd., Robins AFB, Georgia 31098-2442. The Chapter will stage at 0730 hours at the Sam's Club gas station parking area on Wednesday, September 18th.
An annual convocation, guest speakers, and the Avenue of Flags will be featured during National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day events at Andersonville National Historic Site.The day is being nationally recognized on Sept. 20. The National Park Service, The Ride Home, the Friends of Andersonville, and Georgia Southwestern State University will present special programs on Sept. 18 and Sept. 20.
Retired Col. Robert Certain will be the guest speaker at events on both days. The 2019 National POW/MIA Convocation will be held at 11 a.m. on Sept. 18 in the Storm Dome on the campus of Georgia Southwestern State University, which the public is invited to attend.
The Ride Home and Andersonville will join at 9 a.m. on Sept. 20 to conduct a special ceremony at the park’s National Prisoner of War Museum. Along with Certain, former World War II POW Bill Grafton will discuss his experience being held as a prisoner of war by the Germans.
Also coming to share the story of her brother, who went MIA during the Korean War, is guest speaker Sharon Streetman Ray.
An annual convocation, guest speakers, and the Avenue of Flags will be featured during National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day events at Andersonville National Historic Site.The day is being nationally recognized on Sept. 20. The National Park Service, The Ride Home, the Friends of Andersonville, and Georgia Southwestern State University will present special programs on Sept. 18 and Sept. 20.
Retired Col. Robert Certain will be the guest speaker at events on both days. The 2019 National POW/MIA Convocation will be held at 11 a.m. on Sept. 18 in the Storm Dome on the campus of Georgia Southwestern State University, which the public is invited to attend.
The Ride Home and Andersonville will join at 9 a.m. on Sept. 20 to conduct a special ceremony at the park’s National Prisoner of War Museum. Along with Certain, former World War II POW Bill Grafton will discuss his experience being held as a prisoner of war by the Germans.
Also coming to share the story of her brother, who went MIA during the Korean War, is guest speaker Sharon Streetman Ray.
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September 20, 2019 - National POW/MIA Recognition Day Many Americans across the United States pause to remember the sacrifices and service of those who were prisoners of war (POW), as well as those who are missing in action (MIA), and their families. All military installations fly the National League of Families POW/MIA flag, which symbolizes the nation’s remembrance of those who were imprisoned while serving in conflicts and those who remain missing. Veteran rallies take place in many states on National POW/MIA Recognition Day. United States flags and POW/MIA flags are flown on this day and joint prayers are made for POW's and those missing in action. National POW/MIA Recognition Day posters are also displayed at college or university campuses and public buildings to promote the day. Remembrance ceremonies and other events to observe the day are also held in places such as the Pentagon, war memorials and museums. |
September 20-21, 2019 — Veteran Volunteers needed to help paint the inside of Veterans Village in Cocoa apartments in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Contact Volunteers of America, Michelle F. Auclair at (321) 252-4367 to learn more and volunteer.
September 21, 2019 — 0900 - 1030. Fourth Annual POW/MIA/Outdoor Remembrance Educational Event at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Scottsmoor. Names of all veterans to be read and coins placed on grave markers. Sponsored by Outdoor Remembrance Educational Event (Scouts of America). Contact joshua@POW-MIA-OREE.com for more information.
September 21, 2019 — 0900 - 1600. Brevard Honors Veterans — Great All American Chili Cook Off (0900- 1600) at the Veterans Memorial Center to support a new Mission. The Event is to raise funds for wreaths on as many veterans graves as possible throughout Brevard County’s 80 plus cemeteries during the holidays in December. It will be Veterans Organizations versus the famous Fire Fighters and other First Responder Chili Teams. Food, Music, Vendors, Family fun. Call (321) 313-2444 to register or for information. Sponsored by American Legion and VFW and Aux Posts at the VMC. Coordinated to also support Wreaths Across America on December 14, 2019 at the CCNC.
September 28, 2019 - 0230 - Space Coast Honor Flight Escort. Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, FL
* September 29, 2019 - 1400 - 1600 - Chapter 1 General Membership Meeting - River Palms Community Center, 200 S Banana River Drive, Merritt Island, FL 32952
* October 06, 2019 - 0900 hours. Quarterly fundraising scholarship breakfast at VFW Post 4206 on Dairy Road.
* October 11, 2019 - 0715 hours stage at Byrd's Country Store, US-192. KSU 0730 for journey to the Osceola Arts Center, 2411 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy (192) in Kissimmee for further escort of of SSG Thomas A. Twigg Sr to the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.
* October 13, 2019 - 0830 - 1700. Fundraiser at Publix Supermarket, 125 E Merritt Island Causeway, Merritt Island, FL 32952.
October 19, 2019 — 1000 - 1400. Military Retiree Appreciation Day at the Patrick Air Force Base Gym. Open to all branches of service members who are retired or have retired status. Vendors on site.
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October 20, 2019 - 0900 - ?. American Legion sponsored Poker Run to benefit a fellow fallen rider. |
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October 22, 2019 — 1700 - 2000. So That Others May Live Special event and Fundraiser at Veterans Memorial Center to honor USAF Para Jumpers and RQW Wings around the Country. Contact Debbie Leon of That Others May Live at
(407) 754-4639.
(407) 754-4639.
October 23, 2019 - 1430 hours - Alice Scolari (USAF veteran) Funeral Cape Canaveral National Cemetery.
October 26, 2019 - 0130 - Space Coast Honor Flight Escort. Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne
* October 27, 2019 - 1300 Hours - Board of Directors Meeting (Closed) at Veterans Memorial Center.
* October 27, 2019 - 1400 Hours - General Membership Meeting at Veterans Memorial Center. Public is invited.
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October 27, 2019 - Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band – 1000 Lake Sumter Landing Landing Town Square, The Villages, FL 32162. Event starts at 1500 hours, concert begins at 1900. |
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November 3, 2019 — 1400 - 1630. Island Quarter Auction at the VMC. Sponsored by American Legion Aux Post 344. A combination of Bingo, auction, raffle, fund raiser, direct sales and party. Contact Dorothy Walsh at VMC for more information.
November 8, 2019 — 1000 - 1400. Senior Life Boomer Bash and Expo Day at the Hilton Rialto Melbourne Conference Center. Space theme. Call (321) 242-1235 for more information.
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November 9 - 10, 2019 — 0900 - 1600. The Valiant Air Command Veterans Day Weekend Open House at their building at Space Coast Regional Airport, 6600 Tico Road, Titusville, FL 32780. Free to veterans, active duty and Florida Residents. Features aircraft flybys, static displays with combat pilots, radio controlled model planes, jungle adventures, petting zoo, pony rides and many vendors for food and drink purchase. FREE to veterans and Florida residents. Contact bob.Boswell@valiantaircommand.com for more information. Map |
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* November 10, 2019 - 0900 - 1400. Fundraiser at Coconuts on the Beach, 2 Minutemen Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931. If you have ATV tickets, this would be a great way to promote them.
November 10, 2019 — 0800. Second Annual Tech Rev’s Veterans Day 5K Run. Downtown Melbourne at Hell n Blazes Brewery with proceeds to benefit NVHS for Homeless Vets.
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* November 11, 2019 - 0900 - 1000. Veterans Day Ceremony at VMC with special events and focus on support to veterans in our area. Food from Chick fil A. Contact Don Pearsall, BVC Chairman for more details or to volunteer to participate or support the event. |
* November 11, 2019 - 1000 hours - POW/MIA Flag Raising, Joe's Club, 4676 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, FL 32935
November 11, 2019 — 0830. Folds of Honor Fundraising Golf Tournament at the Savannah Golf Club on Merritt Island 8:30 Shotgun Start, Registration fee, prizes, raffle, etc. Register at savannahsgolf.com
November 11, 2019 — 0900 - 1100. Inaugural Palm Bay Veterans Day Parade. Begins at City Hall, 120 Malabar Road, down Emerson to end at the American Legion Post 117. Contact the Tony Rosa Center on (321) 952-3443 for more information.
November 13, 2019 - 0900 - Brevard Veterans Council Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island
November 13, 2019 — 1000 - 1400. Mega Senior Expo, Melbourne Auditorium on Hibiscus Blvd. Free with many tables to help Vets and Seniors. Call (321) 773-1454 for more info.
November 14, 2019 Veterans Day - 1000 - 1400 - Melbourne Combat Vet Center, 2098 Sarno Road, Melbourne, FL 32935, (321) 254-3410. Veterans Day Ceremony and resource expo.
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November 17, 2019 - 0830 - 1700. Fundraising event for Veteran Homelessness. Ride from American Legion Post 81 and ending at Post 1 in Titusville. Live band, food, 50/50. First bike out at 0930. |
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November 19, 2019 — 0900-1100. Mobile Office Hours by the Office of Senator Marco Rubio in the Library, Veterans Memorial Center. This event offers a direct veteran link to the Senator.
* November 24, 2019 - 1400 Hours - General Membership Meeting at Veterans Memorial Center. The public is invited.
* November 30, 2019 - 11:00 AM. Wickham Park Senior Center Flag Raising, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, FL 32935.
Members stage at the 7-11, 3100 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935 (Corner of N. Wickham Rd and Parkway Dr.) at 10:45. Dress is yellow (green) shirts & vests. KSU for movement to Wickham Park Senior Center, at 10:50.
December 1, 2019 — 1400-1630. Island Quarter Auction at the Veterans Memorial Center. Sponsored by American Legion Aux Post 344. A combination of Bingo, auction, raffle, fund raiser, direct sales and party. Contact Dorothy Walsh at VMC for more information.
* November 24, 2019 - 1400 Hours - General Membership Meeting at Veterans Memorial Center. The public is invited.
* November 30, 2019 - 11:00 AM. Wickham Park Senior Center Flag Raising, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, FL 32935.
Members stage at the 7-11, 3100 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935 (Corner of N. Wickham Rd and Parkway Dr.) at 10:45. Dress is yellow (green) shirts & vests. KSU for movement to Wickham Park Senior Center, at 10:50.
December 1, 2019 — 1400-1630. Island Quarter Auction at the Veterans Memorial Center. Sponsored by American Legion Aux Post 344. A combination of Bingo, auction, raffle, fund raiser, direct sales and party. Contact Dorothy Walsh at VMC for more information.
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December 1, 2019 - Annual AZAN Shriners Space Coast Toy Run - 8:30 a.m. This is the Granddaddy Bike Run, "Returning Home". Donation of $10 or New Unwrapped Toy. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. with free hot breakfast, KSU at 11:00 AM. Ride to Space Coast Harley-Davidson in Palm Bay. Event at SCHD from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. AZAN Shriners Center 1591 W Eau Gallie Blvd., Melbourne, 32935. Contact Ray, (615) 513-6267 for more information, or Email azantoyrun@yahoo.com. |
December 6-7, 2019 — Volunteer with Volunteers Of America to paint the inside of veterans apartments at Cocoa Veterans Village, 906 Peachtree Street. Contact Michelle (321) 252-4367 for more information.
December 7, 2019 — 0730-1400. MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation Pearl Harbor Day Annual Fund Raising Golf Tournament. Cocoa Beach Country Club. For Golfers, including active duty military teams and those who like auctions, raffles, food, drinks and fun. Details and registration on web site moaacc.org. The Good Deeds Foundation supports all Brevard JROTC and youth programs; active duty units, many veterans and the VMC including a recent grant to cover shipping costs from Hawaii for the USS Arizona Pearl Harbor Exhibit.
December 7, 2019 — 0730-1400. MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation Pearl Harbor Day Annual Fund Raising Golf Tournament. Cocoa Beach Country Club. For Golfers, including active duty military teams and those who like auctions, raffles, food, drinks and fun. Details and registration on web site moaacc.org. The Good Deeds Foundation supports all Brevard JROTC and youth programs; active duty units, many veterans and the VMC including a recent grant to cover shipping costs from Hawaii for the USS Arizona Pearl Harbor Exhibit.
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December 7, 2019 — 1500-1700. The Veterans Memorial Center Museum has received a long sought prize artifact — A 4x5 ft piece of the USS Arizona Superstructure from Pearl Harbor!! A new Exhibit about the attack that began WWII will be Opened at the VMC. It will be a special event with media coverage and refreshments. Contact the Museum staff on (321) 453-1776 Ext 5 for more information. |
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December 8, 2019 — 1500-1700. Eastern Florida Debut of the Vietnam War Era Documentary Film “Return to China Beach” in the Gray Hall, Veterans Memorial Center. Producers and Cast Members will be on hand to preface the film and answer questions. Museum open and refreshments served. This is a major event with tickets on sale starting on the 15th of November at the VMC for $10.00 each, or at the door. The film depicts the China Beach Area before, during and after the war and features the growing international surfing venue now there. Contact the VMC at (321) 453-1776, ext 5 for any questions.
December 11, 2019 — 1000-1300. Veterans Memorial Center Annual Meeting and Christmas Party. Tickets for $10.00 each go open sale at the VMC in November with limited seating available. Get yours early. Contact the Manager on Duty or Bob Doyle, VMC Operations Manager for more details and to purchase tickets.
December 11, 2019 - 0900 - Brevard Veterans Council Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island
December 11, 2019 — 1000-1300. Veterans Memorial Center Annual Meeting and Christmas Party. Tickets for $10.00 each go open sale at the VMC in November with limited seating available. Get yours early. Contact the Manager on Duty or Bob Doyle, VMC Operations Manager for more details and to purchase tickets.
December 11, 2019 - 0900 - Brevard Veterans Council Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center, Merritt Island
* December 14, 2019 — 1200 hours. Wreaths Across America Ceremony at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Scottsmoor to place wreaths on all 8,000 plus veterans graves as well as to support wreaths for other Brevard Cemeteries as possible. Contact Betty Jo Green, Wreaths Across America, Brevard Coordinator at (321) 777-1007 to support with funding or participate in the Ceremony.
December 14, 2019 - Wreaths Across America Day. Four Brevard County WAA programs will try to ensure that every veteran grave in every Brevard County cemetery receives a wreath on this day. For more information and to make donations please contact the appropriate WAA location coordinator:
Brevard Honors Veterans — WAA: Dorothy Walsh (321) 426-6736 or Don Pearsall (321) 313-2444
Cape Canaveral National Cemetery WAA: Betty Jo Green, (321) 777-1007
Shady Oaks WAA — Melbourne, Florida: Bruce Rothschild, (321) 514-9874
Friends of the Cemetery — WAA — Titusville: Sam DiBlasio, (321) 222-8738.
* December 15, 2019 - Annual Chapter 1 Christmas Party - 4:00p.m. – 6:00 p.m, Island Time Marina & Restaurant,
400 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931. Secret Santa gift exchange - please limit gifts to $10 if possible
* December - General Membership Meeting TBD.
December 14, 2019 - Wreaths Across America Day. Four Brevard County WAA programs will try to ensure that every veteran grave in every Brevard County cemetery receives a wreath on this day. For more information and to make donations please contact the appropriate WAA location coordinator:
Brevard Honors Veterans — WAA: Dorothy Walsh (321) 426-6736 or Don Pearsall (321) 313-2444
Cape Canaveral National Cemetery WAA: Betty Jo Green, (321) 777-1007
Shady Oaks WAA — Melbourne, Florida: Bruce Rothschild, (321) 514-9874
Friends of the Cemetery — WAA — Titusville: Sam DiBlasio, (321) 222-8738.
* December 15, 2019 - Annual Chapter 1 Christmas Party - 4:00p.m. – 6:00 p.m, Island Time Marina & Restaurant,
400 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931. Secret Santa gift exchange - please limit gifts to $10 if possible
* December - General Membership Meeting TBD.
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