Broward County Council and Broward Navy Days salute veterans, hosts USS Kauffman crewmembers

submitted by Robert Hein, Broward County Council

Nov. 16, 2008 - The week started with the crew attending the Dolphins/Seahawks football game. Transportation and tickets were provided by the Broward County, Florida Council of the Navy League and Broward Navy Days, hosts for the visit and planned the activities.

The festivities started with ship visits for the Boy Scouts and public. The sailors attended a Veterans Day Ceremony at Welleby Park in Sunrise. There was a 21 gun salute and Alan Starr Broward County Navy League was the guest speaker.

Finally it was party time and a great one was held at Briny’s Irish Pub at Riverfront. It was a salute to Veterans and All Hands Party. Briny’s is a Community Affiliate of the Broward County Council.

Wednesday the sailors were transported by council members to visit the Ninigen State Veterans Home. They even watched the patients play a game of volleyball. That night a large number of the sailors enjoyed the Panthers game with transportation and tickets again provided by their hosts.

Cmdr. Robert Cepek, the commanding officer of USS Kauffman and some of his crew attended the BCNL dinner at Tropical Acres. The commander was the guest speaker.

Throughout the week free movies were available to the sailors at Cinema Paradiso.

A special Chief’s party sponsored by the CPOA was held at the Wayward Sailor.