event photos
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All of the photos published here come from a variety of sources, including uploads from members, social media, or availability in the public domain.
The quality of the images is determined by the source of the photos.
All of the photos published here come from a variety of sources, including uploads from members, social media, or availability in the public domain.
The quality of the images is determined by the source of the photos.
gold star pinning event
Good morning my friends,
On March 28th Vinnie L. Howard notified me that the following day was an event at the Canaveral National Cemetery to celebrate National Vietnam Veterans Day and asked if he could pick up some of my mothers books, "You Are Not Forgotten" with foreword by Henry Kissinger, to give to attendees.
I answered Vinnie that I would like to attend the event and would bring enough books so that anyone that would like one could have a copy. The next day Vinnie had a table set up for me so I could give books to the veterans. Many veterans groups were there that day.
One such group was the Việt Nam Niềm Nhớ Không Tên - VN3KT - Vietnam Unforgettable Memories Foundation. A member of this foundation named H.D. was speaking with me and asked me where my Gold Star Lapel Pin was. I replied that my family had never received our Pins. For those who do not know, a Gold Star Pin is a military decoration given to direct family members whose loved one was Killed in combat or died in the theater of war. H.D. called the Keynote speaker, Major General Fields, over to me to let him know that somehow our family had never gotten our Gold Star Pins.
Major General Fields and H.D. worked with the Pentagon to have the Gold Star Pins expedited and sent to the Merritt Island Veterans Center. Today during the Rolling Thunder's monthly meeting my family will be presented with our Gold Star Pins. I am so grateful to all that were involved, Vinnie, General Fields, and especially H.D. who noticed and worked to make this happen for my family. Thank You!!
-Van Grubb via Facebook
On March 28th Vinnie L. Howard notified me that the following day was an event at the Canaveral National Cemetery to celebrate National Vietnam Veterans Day and asked if he could pick up some of my mothers books, "You Are Not Forgotten" with foreword by Henry Kissinger, to give to attendees.
I answered Vinnie that I would like to attend the event and would bring enough books so that anyone that would like one could have a copy. The next day Vinnie had a table set up for me so I could give books to the veterans. Many veterans groups were there that day.
One such group was the Việt Nam Niềm Nhớ Không Tên - VN3KT - Vietnam Unforgettable Memories Foundation. A member of this foundation named H.D. was speaking with me and asked me where my Gold Star Lapel Pin was. I replied that my family had never received our Pins. For those who do not know, a Gold Star Pin is a military decoration given to direct family members whose loved one was Killed in combat or died in the theater of war. H.D. called the Keynote speaker, Major General Fields, over to me to let him know that somehow our family had never gotten our Gold Star Pins.
Major General Fields and H.D. worked with the Pentagon to have the Gold Star Pins expedited and sent to the Merritt Island Veterans Center. Today during the Rolling Thunder's monthly meeting my family will be presented with our Gold Star Pins. I am so grateful to all that were involved, Vinnie, General Fields, and especially H.D. who noticed and worked to make this happen for my family. Thank You!!
-Van Grubb via Facebook
We were honored to have the Grubb Family visit with us at our April 27th meeting, and to show our appreciate and never ending support for the families of the fallen and captured. We were finally able to present the Gold Star label pin to the sons of Lt. Col. Wilmer Grubb; Roland, Roy, Stephen, and Sarah who received for Jeff.
Lt, Col. Grubb had been flying an unarmed reconnaissance mission when he came under fire from a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun unit in Quang Binh Provice during a January 26, 1966 mission over North Vietnam. Grubb had presumably died within days of his capture at the infamous prison camp Hỏa Lò Prison, long referred to as the "Hanoi Hilton" by Americans who survived it. His remains were returned to the family and interred at Arlington National Cemetery in 1974, more than eight years after his capture. However, the family was never given their Gold Star Label Pin.
Also in attendance was Connie Hardy, Niece Selena Young, Friends USAFR Colonel Sue Wisnom, Gold Star Cynthia Wensinger, Rick and Mandy Grisbrum. A very special thank you to HD and the VN3KT foundation for making this event happen.
Lt, Col. Grubb had been flying an unarmed reconnaissance mission when he came under fire from a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun unit in Quang Binh Provice during a January 26, 1966 mission over North Vietnam. Grubb had presumably died within days of his capture at the infamous prison camp Hỏa Lò Prison, long referred to as the "Hanoi Hilton" by Americans who survived it. His remains were returned to the family and interred at Arlington National Cemetery in 1974, more than eight years after his capture. However, the family was never given their Gold Star Label Pin.
Also in attendance was Connie Hardy, Niece Selena Young, Friends USAFR Colonel Sue Wisnom, Gold Star Cynthia Wensinger, Rick and Mandy Grisbrum. A very special thank you to HD and the VN3KT foundation for making this event happen.
Photo & video credits: Tom Talley and Cindy Flowers
Our April 27th Membership Meeting
Michelle Bake receives her Rocker and Eagle Patches. With her is COB Jesse Justice
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Dreama Justice receives her Rocker and Eagle patches from her son, COB Jesse Justice. Dreama is the spouse of "JJ" Justice, our immediate past president.
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Our first meeting of 2025, January 26th, member Phillip Schmitz (L) receives his Boot Patch from Chapter president Dr. Lance Armstrong.
First Annual Space Coast Stadium "Salute to Service
"Know all the veteran community members who participated today in, and who will see the event via follow up media, the First Annual Space Coast Stadium “Salute to Service” , will join me in thanking the USSSA team led by Bob Grey. We also appreciate the great involvement of Sheriff Ivey’s BCSO and all First Responders. They may have lost the opening game to the Patrick Space Force Base experienced team, but their role in the opening ceremonies, flyover, bagpipes and much more won the day!
Many great comments from fans, the 20 teams from around the country gathering for the four day tournament and others were passed to Bob Grey and many organizers , including me. USSSA estimated 1500 there for the opening ceremony in weather that was great after a tough week. MOTORCYCLES: Rolling Thunder FL-1 and Combat Vets 20-1 did a great job and made a huge impact. |
GOLOR GUARDS: Our Theme of History (Sons of the American Revolution - SAR); Present Day Veterans (Marine Corps League) and the Future (Viera HS Army JROTC Color guard and 25 cadets in support) worked and brought a huge cheer.
NATIONAL ANTHEM: Great job Delinda Griffis. Glad you brought your mom. VENDORS: Great turnout. Sorry not many customers. Next years plan already in the works to come early, position better and close down for the ceremony and first game. FIRST PITCHERS: Though we were all outclassed by SMsgt Bottoms from PSFB, the catcher did not miss any pitches even those with bounces. Thanks to Sheriff Ivey for asking me to represent the veteran community and bounce his first pitch. So, thank you!!! This is expected to become and annual event, but clearly pretty good for the first time. Wait until next year!! Warm regards, Donn" (Weaver) |
November General Meeting - Veterans Memorial Center Library / Museum
At our November Chapter meeting our new secretary Carol Michaels was sworn in. Chapter president Dr. Lance Armstrong administering the oath of office.
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At our monthly meeting on November 17th., our member Ruth Jones received her boot Patch. Please join FL1 in congratulating Ruth.
Pictured (L-R) Gary McClain, (VP), Ruth, Dr. Lance Armstrong (President).
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Short video of the Chapter escorting the Wreaths Across America Trucks to Cape Canaveral National Cemetery:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1273641947394530/?s=single_unit&__cft__[0]=AZXwP92lpZtSLcPT91xsvlIyQduiBGBKTf0n35LGiRVc7t4vv9QwJO2mFJTS46_S_x76d76J-OmYShTP3JGjOApv3nHkEaC23_0RGgCzapiAfCbOQwqopZbCg4kdy52tncVRYLqr3Kt4TWN_4T8Hy8q2nCRYsoZIYxt9XME8UjAJZux9FwUUVje01RPGyPhrR6Q
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1273641947394530/?s=single_unit&__cft__[0]=AZXwP92lpZtSLcPT91xsvlIyQduiBGBKTf0n35LGiRVc7t4vv9QwJO2mFJTS46_S_x76d76J-OmYShTP3JGjOApv3nHkEaC23_0RGgCzapiAfCbOQwqopZbCg4kdy52tncVRYLqr3Kt4TWN_4T8Hy8q2nCRYsoZIYxt9XME8UjAJZux9FwUUVje01RPGyPhrR6Q
At Florida 1's annual Christmas dinner, members Charles Grochowski (R) and Robert Wells (L) were presented their Rocker and Eagle patches. Vice President, Gary McClain (C) presents the patches. Please join us in congratulating them for earning their patches.
At today's membership meeting (10/27/24) Chapter 1's new officers were administered the oath of office.
(L-R) New Vice President, Gary McClain, current President, Dr. Lance Armstrong (administering the oath), New Treasurer, Steve Fritz, and New Chairman of the Board, Jesse Justice.
Please join us in congratulating our new officers.
(L-R) New Vice President, Gary McClain, current President, Dr. Lance Armstrong (administering the oath), New Treasurer, Steve Fritz, and New Chairman of the Board, Jesse Justice.
Please join us in congratulating our new officers.
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Chapter 1 Florida President Lance Armstrong, and VP Gary McClain were in Daytona, for 2024 BIKETOBER FEST, over the weekend to promote Rolling Thunder. We handed out 400 fliers so people could go on line to see What Rolling Thunder is all about. We also presented plaques of appreciation to Froggy's Saloon and Boot Hill Saloon for their continuing support of our Veterans and Rolling Thunders Mission.
"UNTIL THEY ALL COME HOME".
"UNTIL THEY ALL COME HOME".
Rolling Thunder Florida Chapter 1 had a great dinner tonight and presented a plaque in appreciation to Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill for supporting our cause for many years!
Thank you to the management, ownership, and incredible staff for all you have done to assist our cause. If you’re looking for one of the most outstanding places in Florida to enjoy a great dinner, beverages, incredible sports on approximately 40 TVs, wave goodbye to cruise ships or watch rockets launch, this is the place. Many employees are veterans including our server tonight, 25 years in the US Marines. Thank you for your service tonight and to the US military.
Thank you Mike, Rich (USCG Veteran) for all you do to help us. Please remember we have over 80,000 Missing in Action US military service members since World War I including my relative, Lieutenant Wallace P. Currie, who took off over Italy on 22 January 44 and never returned.
“Untill they all come home.”
Thank you to the management, ownership, and incredible staff for all you have done to assist our cause. If you’re looking for one of the most outstanding places in Florida to enjoy a great dinner, beverages, incredible sports on approximately 40 TVs, wave goodbye to cruise ships or watch rockets launch, this is the place. Many employees are veterans including our server tonight, 25 years in the US Marines. Thank you for your service tonight and to the US military.
Thank you Mike, Rich (USCG Veteran) for all you do to help us. Please remember we have over 80,000 Missing in Action US military service members since World War I including my relative, Lieutenant Wallace P. Currie, who took off over Italy on 22 January 44 and never returned.
“Untill they all come home.”
FL Chapter 1 delivered a replacement POW*MIA flag to another Brevard County School. The student safety patrol at Coquina Elementary in Titusville, FL, attached and raised the new flag. Board Member Walt Marshall assisting.
Florida Chapter 1 delivered a replacement POW*MIA flag to Freedom 7 Elementary school in Cocoa Beach, FL. Board Member Walt Marshall assisting,
National POW*MIA Recognition Day, Robins AFB, Georgia
Members from several Florida Rolling Thunder® Chapters attended the POW*MIA Recognition Day Ceremony held annually at Robins AFB is Georgia. The following photo's, courtesy of Chapter 1's Tom Tally, were taken Friday, the 20th of September, at the Aviation Museum at Robins.
POW*MIA Chair Of Honor Unveiled At Veterans Memorial Center Plaza
Walt Marshall, RTFL1 (L) and Donn Weaver, VMC (R)
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Unveiling by Walt Marshal, assisted by Billy VanDoren, with VMC Honor Guard
Billy VanDoren
Photo's courtesy of Anna Stewart
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The family of United States Marine Corporal Daniel James Norton requested Florida Chapter 1 provide an escort of his cremains
from their home to Cape Canaveral National Cemetery
from their home to Cape Canaveral National Cemetery
Veterans Memorial Center Plaza - Home Of New POW*MIA Chair of Honor
Today, Friday, August 9, 2024, the Rolling Thunder Florida Chapter 1 Chair of Honor was installed by Real Stone and Granite on the grounds of the Veterans Memorial Center (VMC), Sykes Creek, Merritt Island. A date for the unveiling will be determined later.
It took 30 years, but finally, Brevard County has a new Middle School!
On July 30th, with over 250 people in attendance, Brevard County held it's grand opening of Viera Middle School. The Veterans Memorial Center in Merritt Island provided the color guard as well as 20 members of Chapter 1 Florida in raising the National Ensign and the POW*MIA flag. Two years ago Chapter 1 provided and raised a POW*MIA flag at every school in the County - 86 in total.
Congratulations Brevard County School Board, the VMC, and Chapter 1 Florida for a magnificent ceremony.
Congratulations Brevard County School Board, the VMC, and Chapter 1 Florida for a magnificent ceremony.
Images from the Zachary M Martin Memorial Run
Photos courtesy of Tom Tally
Photos courtesy of Tom Tally
Memorial Day Events
Memorial Day Ride For Freedom is now in the record books. Many thanks and much appreciation to Chapter 6 for hosting this awesome event. They certainly put on a fantastic event. One of may video's: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7U40EksdSM
Mike Erdman Automotive Memorial Day event: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceCoastDaily/videos/851982370281307
https://www.facebook.com/reel/432960592783043 from AVET Project, Inc.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/432960592783043 from AVET Project, Inc.
Photos courtesy of Lance Armstrong, President Chapter 1, taken Friday 5/24/24 at Florida State Ride For Freedom XXXVI Mid Florida, Port St. Lucie
The Chapter participates in the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the
Vietnam and All Veterans of Brevard Reunion at the Wall.
Vietnam and All Veterans of Brevard Reunion at the Wall.
World War II U.S. Army Air Force Staff Sgt. Franklin P. Hall - MIA -
finally found and rendered full military honors
Photos and video provided by Rolling Thunder® Chapter 1 Florida President, Lance Armstrong
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The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced that U.S. Army Air Force Staff Sgt. Franklin P. Hall, 21, of Leesburg, Florida, killed during World War II, was accounted for July 13, 2023.
In January 1944, Hall was assigned to the 66th Bombardment Squadron, 44th Bombardment Group (Heavy) in the European Theater. On Jan. 21, Hall, a left waist gunner on board a B-24D Liberator Queen Marlene, was killed in action when his plane was attacked by German air forces near Équennes-Éramecourt, France. German forces quickly found the crash site and recovered nine sets of remains, which were then interred them in the French cemetery at Poix-de-Picardie. Hall’s remains were not accounted for after the war. Beginning in 1945, the American Graves Registration Command (AGRC), the organization that searched for and recovered fallen American personnel in the European Theater, searched the area around Équennes-Éramecourt. None of the investigations uncovered any leads regarding the disposition of Hall’s remains. He was declared non-recoverable on March 01, 1951. |
DPAA historians have been conducting on-going research into Soldiers missing from combat around Équennes-Éramecourt and found that X-391 St. Andre (X-391) and X-393 St. Andre (X-393), buried in Normandy American Cemetery, an American Battle Monuments Commission site, could be associated with Hall. X-391 and X-393 were disinterred in April 2018 and transferred to the DPAA Laboratory for analysis where it was later determined the remains of X-393 belonged to Hall.
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To identify Hall’s remains, scientists from DPAA used anthropological analysis. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome DNA (Y-STR) analysis. Hall’s name is recorded on the Tablets of the Missing at Ardennes American Cemetery, France, along with others still missing from WWII. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for. Hall was buried at Lone Oak Cemetery in Leesburg, Florida, on Sunday, January 21st, 2024. For family and funeral information, contact the Army Casualty Office at (800) 892-2490. For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for Americans who went missing while serving our country, visit the DPAA website at www.dpaa.mil or find us on social media at www.facebook.com/dodpaa or https://www.linkedin.com/company/defense-pow-mia-accounting-agency. |