Broward Council Members and Friends

As we close out the month of April, what better way to end the month then to celebrate FLEET WEEK with all the men and women serving our great country. We began the week with an onboard reception the USS Gettysburg, a guided missile cruiser commanded by Capt. Bob Hein. Capt. Hein was raised right here in Broward County and his parents, Bob and Denise Hein are members of our council and Bob is a Past President of the Council. Another Broward County resident will be commanding the USS Wasp, an amphibious assault ship, Capt. Gary Boardman.

The Humana Military Fleet Week 2012 is presented by Advocate Homecare, Broward Navy Days and local Navy League Councils. The festivities started off with a bang of fireworks showcased at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino with an all hands reception. Rear Admiral Ann C. Philips, USN welcomed everyone. The court yard was filled with sailors, marines, coast guard, veterans and the general public who mingled for hours and a wonderful time was had by all.

As the week progressed, many activities kept everyone on the move, with the Celebrity Chef luncheon hosted by all US navy ships, Fort Lauderdale Coast Guard Station and Anthony’s Runway 84. The food was out of this world, you didn’t go hungry. Thanks to all the local chefs for coming out and supporting Fleet Week.

We continued on with the Junior Officer’s reception hosted by our own Broward County Council. What a great time we had, as always, at our Community Affiliate, Briny’s Pub. Our council presented to each visiting vessel a small gift for their MWR fund.

On Friday, The Office of the Secretary of Defense National Committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and iReachAmerica Foundation held a breakfast dedicated to the Employers of the National Guard and the United States Reserve Service Members. Guest speaker was Rear Admiral Michael Yurina, Director, Strategic Planning and Communication, Submarine Warfare Division, Chief Naval Operations Staff. Rear Admiral Yurina also hails from Broward County. He spoke earlier in the week to the student body of his alma mater, Cardinal Gibbons High School. Both of his parents, are members of the Broward County Council and they were also present at the school. I also attended the presentation and was warmly greeted by the Admiral.

This was only a few of the many activities planned for the week. Approximately, 8,000 people came out and took advantage of touring the many vessels in port. Thank you goes out to many of our council members, too many to name, and I don’t want to forget anyone, so I will just say THANK YOU AND THANK YOU for all you did and gave to make this Fleet Week a huge success.

The week ended with a Dignitary Reception onboard the USS Wasp with Guest Speaker, Admiral John C. Harvey, Jr., USN. On Saturday evening, Hugh’s Catering hosted the Annual Galley Wars, a mini “food chef” competition between the galleys of each visiting vessel. Again, what great food, as you can tell, we ate a lot this week !!!!

Congratulations to Flanagan High School JROTC who took a trophy home for first place. The group of 45 students was crowned champions at a national academic, athletic and drill competition. This group will present colors at our upcoming May dinner social.

Shelley