By Doug Stauffer
In a touching tribute to community and service, the Northwest Florida Military Officers Association (NWFMOA) celebrated its 2nd Annual Valentines for Veterans event, a gesture of love and respect to the veterans residing at the Bob Hope Village, part of the Air Force Enlisted Village. This special event, founded in 2023 on the initiative of General Ron Folgeman, former Air Force Chief of Staff, is becoming a tradition, embodying the spirit of Valentine’s Day through community outreach and intergenerational connections. Retired Brigadier General Fran Hendricks resurrected Valentines for Veterans for NWFMOA last year following the community outreach initiative he did while he was the 96th Wing Commander at Eglin (2002-2004).
Under the guidance of their teachers and Principal Lisa Tucker, Longwood Elementary School students made the heartwarming journey to Bob Hope Village, delivering over 300 handmade Valentines to the eagerly waiting residents. The children’s efforts ensured that no one was left out of this celebration of love and appreciation, marking the event with smiles, laughter, and an abundance of hugs, solidifying it as a resounding success for the second year.
The musical contributions of the Emerald Coast Chorus further enhanced the celebration by adding a layer of festive joy to the atmosphere. Yet, it was not just the performances and Valentines that made the day memorable. The presence and words of Dr. Lamar White, an Okaloosa County School Board member, lent a deep resonance to the occasion. His connections to the military are awe-inspiring. “I love the military, but also have deep military connections in my family,” said Dr. White. “I am the son of a U.S. Army Korean War Veteran and married to Connie, whose father was a retired U.S. Air Force pilot. Connie’s dad flew the P-47 against the Nazis when he was nineteen at the beginning of his career and ended his career in Vietnam, flying the F-105. I was blessed to see these school children providing the valentines and the association’s participation with the Bob Hope Village residents.”
Key members of the NWFMOA, including Tom Azar, Ray Alexander, Dick Solt, Dave Parisot, Fred Westfall, Rod Gerdes, Mel Claxton, Bob Allen, Kim Wintner and Fran Hendricks, were in attendance. Their support underscored the collective effort behind the association’s endeavors. The unveiling of the new NWFMOA Chapter Banner, led by Jim Shoff, was a proud moment, symbolizing the association’s growth and ongoing commitment to its mission.
The NWFMOA, a non-profit organization comprising over 200 active, retired and separated officers from the Uniformed Services, along with surviving spouses, invites individuals to join its ranks and partake in a broad spectrum of social, cultural, professional and service activities. With a history of excellence and service, the association remains dedicated to advocating for military rights and benefits and supporting legislative actions in favor of all veterans through its affiliation with the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA).
For those inspired by service, community and legacy values, the NWFMOA offers a welcoming platform for engagement and support. Additional information about the association and its activities can be found at www.nwfmoa.org, inviting all interested parties to explore how they can contribute to and benefit from this distinguished community.
