MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Veterans gathered Friday evening at the VFW Post in Miami Beach to salute America and celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday on the eve of the Fourth of July.
The event recognized the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the U.S. armed forces and everything they have done to defend the country.
“Freedom is never free,” said retired U.S. Army Col. Noel Pace. “I think it’s important to recognize that fact.”
The celebration also marked the kickoff of the VFW’s fundraising campaign to support veterans.
“Freedom is important to everybody,” said Enrique Escobar, junior vice commander of VFW Post 3599.
Escobar, an Air Force veteran who served during the Vietnam War, said the holiday carries special meaning for those who have served.
“This is our freedom we’re celebrating right now,” Escobar said. “And as veterans, we especially know that. We did things to save our freedom.”
Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner thanked the veterans and supporters who attended the event.
“We wouldn’t be celebrating 250 if it wasn’t for our veterans, so anytime the VFW throws a party we’re here to support them because they’ve supported us,” Meiner said.
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