More than 200 people honored veterans by attending the September 4 unveiling ceremony of the new Veterans Memorial in front of Miami Lakes Government Center.
The ceremony, organized by the Town’s Veterans Committee, included a Presentation of the Colors, reading of a proclamation from the Mayor and Town Council, and the unveiling of the commemorative bricks placed on the pathway leading to the Memorial.
James E. Deming, CWO-4 United States Army, a WWII veteran who served in the Constabulary Forces in Germany, delivered a memorable speech filled with personal stories and words of encouragement.
“On this day, our community came together to honor the brave men and women in the armed forces,” said Mayor Wayne Slaton. “This memorial, proudly displayed in front of our Town Hall, is a great tribute to their sacrifice and service to our country.”
The artwork, entitled “V is for Veterans,” was created by artist Stephanie Jaffe Werner to honor all five of the U.S. military branches – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
A professional advisory committee made up of local arts professionals was formed and with the support of the town’s Veterans Committee, selected Jaffe’s artwork to adorn Town Hall.
“This monument recognizes all the brave men and women who signed a blank check payable to the United States of America up to the amount of their life,” said First Class Petty Officer USCG Angel Luis Vazquez, chair of the Veterans Committee. “I want to commend the members of the Veterans Committee who are dedicated and worked tirelessly to bring this Veterans Memorial project to the Town of Miami Lakes.”
There is still time to purchase a commemorative brick to honor a loved one, for your family or your company, for the Veterans Memorial. For more information, call 305-364-6100.