BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF THE EMERALD COAST CELEBRATES VETERANS DAY
BGCEC’S Honor Guard hosts Veterans Day Ceremony
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast now have an Honor Guard for the first time, thanks to Mick Leatherwood, the Education Director at BGCEC. Mick shared stories, pictures and memorabilia of his years in the military with the Club kids. After showing great interest and enthusiasm of having their own Honor Guard for the BGCEC, Mick has been able to use his great passion for this country and incredible teaching skills to educate the Boys & Girls Club kids through his Honor Guard program.BGCEC’S Honor Guard hosts Veterans Day Ceremony
Mick has taught the BGCEC Honor Guard how to raise and lower the American flag, how to store the flag and flag etiquette. He has also taught the Honor Guard different commands, how to march properly, and all about different branches of the military. A few months before Veterans Day was upon us, Mick began teaching the Honor Guard kids the meaning of Veterans Day. In addition to educating them that it is an annual United States Federal holiday honoring military veterans observed on November 11th every year.
“Mr. Mick has taught us freedom isn’t free, and Veterans pay for our freedom. I also learned that Veterans Day is formerly Armistice Day.” Jahmeel, age 11.
“Being in the BGCEC Honor Guard is really cool. I’ve learned how to dress the American flag, fold it properly, and how to respect it.” Bradley, age 8.
The BGCEC Honor Guard hosted a Veterans Day ceremony at the Fort Walton Beach Club with drill team performance by the Choctawhatchee High School ROTC, national anthem sung by Curtis Clark, guest speaker Chief Msgt Chambers, veteran recognition, and flag folding ceremony by BGCEC Honor Guard.
When asked why he feels it important to educate kids about the military, veterans, and patriotism Mick said, “I feel a duty to teach our kids that we cannot take our freedom for granted. Families sacrifice a lot too, not just the veteran. We have to educate kids about the importance, meaning and appreciation for veterans because kids are the future of this country, they are our replacements. We must equip them with as much knowledge and understanding as possible to enable them to be productive citizens who take care of this country and world after we’re long gone.”
BGCEC Mission Statement: To inspire and empower all young people and their families, in partnership with their community, to achieve their full potential to BE GREAT.
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