COLUMNS: CAPT. VAN HUBBARD
It is good to be able to share memories of service to our country with others that understand
I was blessed to be able to participate in our Veterans Day celebrations. When I wrapped up my tour of duty back in December of 1970, servicemen weren’t welcomed home. After the anti-war protests of the sixties we didn’t wear our uniforms in large towns, especially college towns. Thankfully, things have changed. I was proud to take part in this event as a U.S. Navy veteran.
It was encouraging to share memories with other older vets, people that lived through similar times. It was wonderful that the Boca Grande Historical Society and History Center, the Boca Grande Woman’s Club, the Gasparilla Inn & Club and Lee County Parks and Recreation worked to put it together. A heartfelt thank you to all that worked to make this happen.
We met at the Flagpole site by the Gasparilla Inn Beach Club house. It was a chilly morning, but the event was well attended and there were moving presentations. Afterwards we proceeded to the Crowninshield Community Center for warm coffee and fellowship. I found the opportunity to connect and talk with several other vets. It was a patriotic gathering, and I’m so glad I went.
Cheryl Hopkins asked me about Honor Flights. I am aware of them but asked her to bring me up to date about them. She is going to follow up and I’m looking forward to making a flight.
It is good to be able to share memories of service to our country with others that understand the firsthand experiences. Many of those in attendance were moved by the memories shared together.
It is especially interesting to share thoughts with others on the growth of our community in the last 30 and 40 years. With the Historical Society members present we could dig up and recollect old memories. Johns Knight is an island historian to be valued. His family is a huge part of our island history: the marina, boat building, tarpon guiding and so much more. Engage with him if you have the opportunity.
An Island History Museum will be opening soon in the Community Center that will dazzle you. It is amazing how much history they are assembling, the depth and details. It needs to be at the top of your to-do list.
It’s easy to bury our past, especially when it was in the military during war times. We had many good memories but so many endured challenges and hardships no one should experience. Consider how contrary to everything we believe it is to fight for your life and country and going into war/battle with serious concerns as to whether you are going to survive. We can’t imagine storming the beaches at Normandy, Iwo Jima or many other invasions requiring men to put everything on the line to maintain our independence and freedoms.
I spent time on a dangerous flight deck in the dark. We lost sailors but nothing like the invasions, or the sea battles of World War II. Be thankful to those that gave for our freedom, especially those that gave all.
Capt. Van Hubbard’s column Hook, Line and Sinker began in the Boca Beacon in 1988. He lives in Placida. Email him ideas and comment at captvanhubbard@gmail.com
