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FALL 2021 / Volume 2 / Issue 1 LIBERTYLIFEMEDIA.COM
Supporting the Military, Veterans, and their Families across The Liberty Coast
On Base • In Town • Pro-Military
BIG RED’S BIRTHDAY
Navy’s First Unmanned Patrol Squadron, VUP-19 Celebrates
Living the American Dream in the U.S. Armed Forces A Fall Full of Pro-Military Anniversaries and Remembrances on The Liberty Coast Blount Island Command’s Strategic Impact
FORMER NAVY STEWARDSMAN TO LIEUTENANT COMMANDER, GENERATO “GEE” MERCADO.
ROCK
THE BOX Benefit Concert For
The Troops
Featuring:
Special Guest:
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1st, 2021 at 7 PM
Orange Park Mall Amphitheater
Tickets starting at $29 | All Proceeds Benefit St. Michaels Soldiers S t . M i c h a e l ’s S o l d i e r s i s d e d i c a t e d t o t h e s u p p o r t o f t h e D e p l o y e d M e n & Wo m e n o f o u r U n i t e d S t a t e s M i l i t a r y.
Go to RockTheBoxop.com for details or visit Ticketmaster 02 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
Caring for the invisible wounds. The UF Health Brain Wellness Program – Jacksonville provides clinical care for military veterans and other adults experiencing persistent health problems associated with mild to moderate traumatic brain injuries. Applicants undergo a full diagnostic assessment and screening before acceptance into the program. Our goal is to aid in healing and to provide treatment and recovery options for individuals, using a holistic approach. Our outpatient model customizes treatment for each patient to meet their cognitive, emotional and physical needs. Services are provided at no cost to military veterans. Visit UFHealthJax.org/brain-wellness, call 904.244.3289 or email us at UFHealthBrainWellnessProgram@jax.ufl.edu for more information. In collaboration with the Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network.
Conditions treated u Anxiety u Depression u Physical and psychological concerns associated with TBI u Post-traumatic stress u Traumatic brain injury Services offered u Art therapy u Behavioral health u Case management u Cognitive therapy u Integrative therapy u Neurology u Neuropsychology u Pharmacology u Physical therapy u Psychiatry u Speech and language pathology
UF HEALTH BRAIN WELLNESS PROGRAM – JACKSONVILLE 580 W. 8th St. Tower II, Sixth Floor Suite 6005 Jacksonville, FL 32209
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Liberty Life
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK
FALL 2021//VOL.2 ISSUE 1 6 Neptune Park Memorizes Aircrew 6 Pro-Military Motorcycle Clubs & Associations 8 FROM STEWARD TO NAVAL OFFICER: Living the American Dream in the U.S. Navy
9 August and September’s Anniversaries and Holidays 10 October’s Anniversaries and Holidays 10 November’s Anniversaries and Holidays 12 Looking Back: Friday Musicale Remembers Enlisted Men’s Dances 13 The Liberty Coast: Blount Island Command’s Strategic Impact 14 VETERAN PROFILE: One Marine’s Passion To Serve Others 20 Things to Do 21 Training Organization Directory 22 News & Info on The Liberty Coast 24 Bravo Zulu 26 Transition Tips: Win the Interview with Preparation 28 RV Campground Directory Cover Photo:U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Northrop Grumman by Chad Slattery/Released 30 The Liberty Coast Publisher
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Joe Snowberger, U. S. Navy Mustang (Ret)
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(904) 476-7861 Publisher@LibertyLifeMedia.Com
(904) 860-2465, SamTaylor1342@Gmail.Com
Social Media Manager Serena Legg, Military Spouse
Art Director ArtDirector@LibertyLifeMedia.Com
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Sr. Contributor Reuben Keith Green, U. S. Navy Veteran Contributor Chistine Swansen
Liberty Life Media welcomes editorial, photographic and calendar contributions. Submit stories, events, people, milestones and military/ Veteran discount offers at
www.LibertyLifeMedia.Com Please share and recycle issues. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. 31 5th Street, Atlantic Beach, Fl 32233-5307 Copyright © Signals Publishing, Inc 2020 President•Sam Taylor•SamTaylor1342@Gmail.Com
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T
ypically, this column is used by the editor to overview the issue and stimulate the reader’s anticipation of the content contained inside. While this issue does not disappoint and absolutely contains inspiring stories, reflections and very useful information for the upcoming Fall season, I have to use the space for some housekeeping and reflection. First, may I draw your attention to the date, volume and issue number on the cover or at the bottom of the page. FALL 2021/ Volume 2 /Issue 1 means, it’s the start of our second year of the print edition. Last August, we began our mission to support The Liberty Coast’s robust community of military, Veterans, and their families, and started sharing your stories. With COVID shut-downs, event cancellations and severe on-base restrictions, many of our advertisers stuck with us. As one stated, “the military and Veteran community needs this community forum and we will support you.” Well, that and Sam Taylor’s dogged persistence.
LIBERTY LIFE STAFF:
Sarah McLaughlin
Image by Navy Veteran & Artist Kristin Cronic, KristinCronicArt.Com
Want to be a Liberty Life pick-up location? Email SamTaylor1342@Gmail.Com
DEFENDERS GATEWAY APP™ AND NETWORK EXPANDS TO THE LIBERTY COAST SM
The FREE Defenders Gateway App offers discounts from thousands of local and national business, services, and organizations. Verified users can also exclusively access job openings, career and business opportunities. The App’s Defenders Virtual ID™ (patent pending) eliminates the need to prove status when receiving discounts at local and national locations. Enhancements, including a private network continue to be announced. Learn more and download the Defenders Gateway App at FreeForAllMilitary.Com and the VIRTUAL ID at MilitaryIDApp.Com. 04 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
Thanks to advertisers’ support and readership growth, Liberty Life has evolved from a print centric community periodical to a full digital media house augmented by the print magazine, a weekly newsletter and an ever growing social media audience. Liberty Life’s birthday wish is that you will visit LibertyLifeMedia.Com to read and share stories, submit your PSAs and events, sign up for the newsletter that keeps you informed between print issues and of course, “like” and/or “follow” us on social media. Now, Afghanistan. As we just begin to digest and reflect on these difficult and challenging times, I’ll let General Mark Milley, Chairman - Joint Chiefs of Staff’s statement ride: “Everyone who served, fought or conducted operations in Afghanistan, almost 800,000, should hold their head high. For more than twenty years, you prevented an attack on the US Homeland. To each of them I want you to know, personally, that your service mattered.” Alas, some bitter-sweet news from within the team at Liberty Life. As I write this, the inaugural editor of this publication is packing her household goods and family to relocate to a wonderful opportunity in Italy. Stephanie Thompson, a Navy Mustang Veteran, has been a truly invaluable charter member of the Liberty Life editorial staff. Her editor’s yingen cohesively fit my publisher’s yang to develop Liberty Life’s emerging voice. Along the way her stories were always well-researched and inspiring. Her keen eye innumerably improved the quality of our content. Her lens view of a storyline enabled me to fine-tune my perspective - that’s me saying, I’ll miss our back and forths. While I appreciate her integrity, honesty and resilience, I truly treasure Stephanie’s friendship, genuine pleasantness and the joy of witnessing her beautiful daughter’s first words, steps and those wonderful, full belly laughs. Word count forces me to wrap it up, so in traditional naval fashion - Fair winds and Following Seas, Stephanie. Ciao, Arrivederci, A presto, A dopo, Ci vediamo, Addio. On Base • In Town • Pro-Military Joe Snowberger U.S. Navy Mustang Veteran (Ret) Publisher | Liberty Life Media
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Pro-Military MOTORCYCLE
were over a dozen visiting ball players and families who stopped their activities to witness the dedication, were several children of the fallen airmen.
CLUBS
Lt. Commander Lester C Kee’s daughter, Karen Kee Pierce, who was just four and a half years old when her father died and Michael Trower Carlucci, the son of Aviation Mechanic 3rd Class Milton Trower were able to attend the unveiling. Both shared their sense of peace and honor to have their father’s service to the country and their sacrifice memorialized forever at such a special place.
ON THE LIBERTY COAST
American Legion Riders Legion.Org Band Of Brothers USMC Motorcycle Riding Club BandOfBrothersUSMC.Org Brothers in Arms Motorcycle Club BrothersInArmsMC.Net
CLAY COUNTY’S NEPTUNE PARK MONUMENT MEMORIALIZES NAVY AIRCREW
Buffalo Soldiers MC Jacksonville. BSMCJaxFl.Com 904-465-2097 Combat Veterans International CVMAFlorida.Org CVMA 20-7 (Yulee) Chapter 20-2 (St. Augustine) Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association CombatVet.US Desert Knights of America MC Redandtannation.Com Harley Owners Group Adamec Jacksonville 904 493-1931 Adamec Orange Park 904 215-1931 Adamec St Augustine 904 831-1931 In Country Vets Motorcycle Club ICVMCFlorida.Com First Coast Leathernecks Motorcycle Club 910 548-0266 FloridaLeathernecksMC.Com/ First-Coast-Chapter Purple Heart Riders Motorcycle Club PurpleHeartRiders.Us Red Knights Motorcycle Club RedKnightsMC.Com Rolling Thunder Chapter 4 (Jacksonville) RollingThunderJax.Org U.S. Military Vets Motorcycle Club USMVMC.Org Veterans of Vietnam Motorcycle Club VOVMC.Org Viet Nam Vet Legacy Vets MC B Chapter (Jacksonville) Facebook.com/FireBaseBravo/ Warrior Brotherhood Motorcycle Club WarriorBrotherHoodMC.Com
Navy P-2V Crashed on Fleming Island 70 Years Ago
By Joe
S
ince the 1950’s, The Liberty Coast’s contribution to and support of long-range reconnaissance and anti-submarine missions over vast oceans is stellar and well documented.
A Logwood Jr., Aviation Ordnance Airman Turner Eugene Jones and Airman William Fred Stewart.
Even today, the Navy’s newest maritime patrol aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon, is routinely spotted flying over Naval Air Station Jacksonville, training and preparing crews for deployments around the globe.
The airfield has long since closed and the area was recently transformed into an athletic field and community park located off Thunderbolt Road in Fleming Island, Florida. Park amenities include three ball fields with clay infields, covered dugouts, backstops fences, bleachers, a concession stand, and restrooms.
As the Korean War ended and the Cold War intensified in the 1950’s, the Lockheed P-2 Neptune (P2V) was the Navy’s premier and mainstay, long-range, maritime patrol aircraft capable of performing anti-submarine and aerial mine warfare, aerial photographic intelligence and search and rescue missions. On June 14th, 1951, a Neptune aircraft and crew on a training mission originating from NAS Jacksonville, in preparation for the Korean War, crashed during an attempted emergency landing at then Fleming Island Naval Outer Landing Field. An aviation safety incident summary report reads: An inflight fire forced the crew of a Neptune to carry out an emergency landing at Flemings Island Field, Florida. The aircraft hit an 80 foot pine tree at the end of the runway during a pull-up and go-around and crashed. Seven of the nine crew members were killed. The lost aircrew were Lt. Cmdr. L.B. Worley, Lt. Cmdr. Lester C Kee, Aviation Mechanic 1st Class Clair Meek Walizer, Aviation Mechanic 3rd Class Milton Trower, Aviation Radioman 3rd Class James
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Lt. Junior Grade Ralph Howell Jones and Airman Apprentice John Dabbs Barnett survived the crash.
Capt. Matt Pottenburgh, the commander of the Patrol and Snowberger Reconnaissance Wing Eleven stationed at NAS Jacksonville was one of the guest speakers for the dedication ceremony. He provided the history of the air wing which included the squadron flying the P2V2 Neptune aircraft in 1951. Additionally, Pottenburgh shared a perspective of the Korean War preparations and training the aircrew was experiencing, commenting “At the time of the mishap, the P2V Neptune was the premier antisubmarine aircraft in the U.S. arsenal.”
In June, 2021, the Clay County Board of County Commissioners officially dedicated the facility as Neptune Park, unveiling a permanent monument to remember those who were aboard the P2V Neptune. The beautiful granite monument, designed by BroadusRaines Funeral Home, features the engraved names of the seven killed aboard the aircraft and the two who survived the crash.
Board of County Commissioners member and retired Naval aviator J.B. Renninger said, “As stewards of our community, we are proud of this recreational facility with the beautiful ball fields, the concession stand and the enhancement that it is to this neighborhood and Clay County,” Renninger continued, “I am especially pleased that we are able to permanently honor and memorialize these brave heroes who risked everything to protect our country and our freedoms, especially here in Clay County, with its rich history of military service.”
Among the more than 50 people who attended the monument’s dedication,
Neptune Park is located at 2070 Thunderbolt Rd, Fleming Island, FL.
Photo Photo Credit: Credit:A ANavy Navy P2V P2V taken taken by by Capt. Capt. David David Bedard Bedard -- Pacific PacificAir Air Forces Forces Public PublicAffairs Affairs Above Photo Credit: Board Board of of County County Commissioners Commissioners
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Liberty Feature
work,” said Mercado. “But I was determined to change my job status and reach the stature of a naval officer.” Mercado’s hard work and can-do attitude were rewarded by his supervisors with excellent performance evaluations and encouragement to change to the supply area where he would be able to advance in his career. With the restrictive advancement policies now discarded, he was selected to be an aviation supply storekeeper, ordering parts for the mechanics to maintain the aircraft and specialty equipment for the pilots. Soon, his commander noticed his excellent English and that he already had an associate degree, and recommended him to be picked to attend “A” school at the Naval Air Technical Training Center in Memphis, TN, which soon earned him the rank of first class petty officer.
FROM STEWARD TO NAVAL OFFICER
Living the American Dream in the U.S. Navy By Christina Swanson
O
ne might say that his journey has come full circle all the while in service to others.
When Generato “Gee” Mercado was a youngster growing up in Bacalor, Pampanga, Phillipines, he was a dedicated student, boy scout and altar boy, known for his attention to detail in assisting the priests and helping clean his hometown parish, the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He was such an exceptional altar boy that he was awarded the Ave Maria Cross Award, the highest honor a Catholic boy scout could receive. Today, in Jacksonville, Mercado still volunteers for his church, as part of their cleaning crew and many other roles.
As he continued in the supply area, Mercado’s work ethic warranted him many awards including multiple “Sailor of the Quarter” honors and even “Sailor of the Year” in Pensacola. He competed and was chosen to attend college full-time with the Associate Degree Completion Program at then Florida Junior College (FJC) earning another associate degree.
Graduating cum laude from FJC in 1974, Mercado continued his education at night and, in 1977, graduated from the University of West Florida with a bachelor’s degree in systems science. He also became a proud U.S. citizen at this time. His unwavering resolve paid off when he was commissioned as a naval officer in the U.S. Navy Supply Corps, attended Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA, and was assigned aboard the aircraft carrier USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62), homeported in Norfolk, VA. During his Navy career, Mercado would be assigned to Cecil Field three times—the first two as a steward and the base equivalent of a civilian liquor store clerk, and the last as a lieutenant over the supply division. During a party at the commanding officer’s on-base house, it was clear just how far Mercado had come. “While at the party my wife said she would like to use the powder room,” recalled the now 83-year-old Veteran. “The captain overheard me offer to escort her and began telling my wife where to go. I said, ‘Captain, I know every corner of this house because I used to clean it.’” Lieutenant Commander Mercado retired from active duty in 1991, where he was leading the supply and logistics aspects of the construction of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, GA.
Another more significant journey of service began for Mercado in 1961, when at 23 years old, he decided to follow one of his brothers and join the U.S. Navy.
Forever determined to achieve and learn, after completing a 30-year military career, Mercado worked another 14 years with the Jacksonville Electric Authority. Life has also blessed Mercado with a large, close family of four children, 13 grandchildren, and 16 greatgrandchildren.
Although he had earned an associate degree in surveying from Mapua Institute of Technology, work was scarce and seasonal. The idea of seeing famous places in the United States and around the world, as well as job security, and room and board with a salary, convinced Mercado to join. At the time, there was an agreement between the U.S. and the Philippines where Filipinos were welcomed into the U.S. armed forces and were known as “nationals.” In the Navy, they could only join as “Stewardsman,” one of the very lowest positions. As stewards, Filipinos in the U.S. Navy cooked, cleaned, shined, washed, and swabbed the decks of naval ships and naval bases. Mercado was happy to have the chance to prove himself, although this was his first experience with discrimination with no choice but to accept the steward rate as the sole job allowed to him. After boot camp in San Diego, Mercado was on his way to Naval Air Station Cecil Field where he got his first taste of American life. For nine years of his 30-year Navy career, Mercado maintained the Cecil Field’s commanding officer’s quarters, cooking, cleaning and providing services to help make their family’s lives easier. “Having to be a steward itself was very discriminatory because it was difficult to advance or change into another area of 08 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
LCDR & Mrs. Generato Mercado
Lieutenant Commander Generato “Gee” Mercado (USN, Retired)
“Determination and hard work can overcome adversity and accomplish goals,” said Mercado. “My service in the U.S. Navy made me what I am today. For that, and my supportive family, I am grateful.
WELCOME HOME VIETNAM VETERANS
Join the Jacksonville Bar Association, Vets4Vets, and the Vietnam Veterans Association (VVA) for a Hero’s Welcome many Vietnam Veterans never received… Honoring their courage, valor, and selfless service.
Sunday, November 14, 2021 VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena 300 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32202 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. (Doors Open at Noon)
Procession of Honor of Vietnam Veterans Begins at 12:55 p.m. Guest Speaker - Rocky Bleier, Vietnam Veteran & Pittsburgh Steeler Superbowl Champion Performance by The Navy Band Lunch & Parking Free (Parking Lot Z) for Veterans and their families
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South Jacksonville: 8178 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 904-733-7549 LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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The Liberty Coast A Look Back SM
BLOUNT ISLAND COMMAND’S STRATEGIC IMPACT
Friday Musicale hosted Enlisted Men’s Dances during WWII like this one in March 1942
Jacksonville is the hub of Marine equipment and vehicles deployed worldwide. The Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island is a very specialized port facility and logistics hub that serves as the Marines global equipment locker, repair shop, service garage, armory and food pantry; supplying deployed Marines with all the equipment and vehicles they need to do what Marines do when Uncle Sam dials 9-1-1. The 2,000 acre Blount Island is located in the St Johns River, nine miles east of the Atlantic Ocean, along Heckscher Drive. It primarily serves as a cargo facility for the Port of Jacksonville. The Marines lease approximately 262 acres for its Blount Island Command, or “BIC” as it is known. BIC’s impact on our military readiness and responsiveness can be summed up with one very relatable word to the expeditionary role of the Marines: preposition. Military equipment and supplies are strategically pre-positioned around the world on self-sustaining ships. The ships contain enough food, equipment, supplies, and ammunition to support about 1,600 or more Marines for a month. When needed for a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency, the Marines can be flown into the location and united with the equipment and supplies from the ships. Strategically this approach greatly improves the nation’s security and the Marines combat readiness as they can quickly respond to a crisis anywhere, anytime. There are 17 total ships in the global prepositioning program. 14 of them are Maritime Prepositioning Force ships engaged in the strategic prepositioning of supplies for the U.S. Marine Corps at sea. Most are named The equipment and vehicles used by the Marines across the globe goes through Blount Island. after Medal of Honor recipients. They are a combination of container ships, Roll-On/Roll-Off (RO/RO) ships, transfer dock ships and offshore petroleum distribution ships. The approximately 250 military/government employees and 1,000 civilian contractors at BIC plan the ship’s prescribed equipment load-out and facilitate the loading and unloading of the ships. Their principal role is the cleaning, repairing, painting, maintaining, updating, and inspecting of every one of the thousands of pieces of equipment and vehicles that comes or goes on the ships. To accomplish their tasks, numerous specialty shops and facilities staffed by artisans and technicians sprinkle the command’s beautiful island property. This includes perhaps the biggest “car” wash and the largest vehicle service garage called Big Blue - on The Liberty Coast. 8/22/2021
Publisher’s note: Always a highlight of visiting BIC, in addition to how cool it is just to be around Marines, is observing the many various types of combat-related vehicles and specialty equipment filling the stalls of Big Blue. The daily special at the Bunker Cafe is also a treat.
USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus.jfif
Maritime Prepositioning Force Ship USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus, named for Medal of Honor recipient, former New York Giants football player who died in the Battle of Iwo Jima in WWII.
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VINTAGE JACKSONVILLE: Friday Musicale Remembers Enlisted Men’s Dances by Emily Rivera, Navy Spouse and Dr. Eric A. Becher
J
acksonville, Florida has a long history with the U.S. military. A large part of Jacksonville’s growth in the 20th century came from the emergence of navy bases in the region.
On October 15, 1940, Naval Air Station Jacksonville became the first navy installation in the city. This base was a major training center during World War II, with over 20,000 pilots and aircrew being trained there. With the growth in the local population, the historic Friday Musicale concert music hall saw the need in the community for entertainment and enjoyment while these young men and women were on “liberty” and R&R. Friday Musicale was the host location for various dances including “Enlisted Men’s Dances”. Both men and ladies enjoyed a night out, dressed in their finest, enjoying the sounds of live music. In April of 1944, the Army Air Force Symphonette played a benefit concert for the American Red Cross, raising $1,000 to help in the War effort, a significant amount for the times. In June of 1943, the Ladies’ Friday Musicale Chorus donated a Steinway piano to Camp Blanding in Clay County to boost camp morale. Today, Friday Musicale, is Florida’s oldest musical organization and is celebrating its 131st Season in Jacksonville. From its beginnings in Claudia L’Engle Adams’ palor in 1890, Friday Musicale flourished despite the Great Fire of 1901, World War I, and the Influenza Pandemic of 1918. The organization even sustained allowing men into the mix in 1923 and the venue survived an arson fire in 1995. Friday Musicale continues its long-standing relationship with military families of The Liberty Coast – hosting military retirement parties, awards banquets, weddings, and more. In 2018, working closely with the Jacksonville USO, Friday Musicale hosted the fundraiser “Vintage USO Stars & Stripes Dinner Dance”. The theme was Americana Red, White, and Blue, honoring all branches of service. Three Swing Time at Friday Musicale in 1942 World War II era Jeeps were parked in the courtyard as a photo opportunity for attending guests. During the event, two local Veterans were honored, and a generous donation was made to the USO in tribute to their service. Today, As a nonprofit organization, Friday Musicale offers a 10% military discount for use of the two unique event venues which can be rented out to host various events. These rentals help to fund various programs such as the free annual concert series, college scholarship program, and community outreach to local schools. For more information about Friday Musicale, visit the website at www.fridaymusicale.com or call (904) 355-7584.
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ANNIVERSARIES, MILESTONES AND REMEMBRANCES ON THE LIBERTY COAST
SM
AUGUST & SEPTEMBER On August 29th, the Marine Corps Reserve (MARFORRES) celebrates the 105th anniversary of their augmenting Marine forces for war, national and contingency operations.
An USMC Amphibious Assault Vehicle, Photo Credit: U.S. Navy
As the TOYS FOR TOTS coordinator, MARFORRES’s 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion—Bravo Company - located with their resident alligator named “Sign” next door to the Jacksonville Zoo - collected and delivered over 15,000 toys as Christmas presents in 2020.
Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island is a very specialized port facility and logistics hub that serves as the Marines global equipment locker, repair shop, service garage, armory and food pantry; supplying deployed Marines with all the equipment and vehicles they need to do what Marines do, anywhere in the world, when Uncle Sam dials 9-1-1. On September 3rd, the Marines of the “BIC” will celebrate the anniversary of their commissioning the way you’d expect Marines to celebrate- with PT (Physical Training)- OOH-RAH! National Service Dog Month raises awareness and shows appreciation for the extraordinary work service dogs do every day for the human companions in their care. Double dare you not to be touched by this video: YouTube.Com/Watch?v=Nwdpaao71dI. In September, let’s toast the 79th birthday of the Fighting Tigers of Maritime Patrol Squadron Eight (VP 8). Deploying from NAS Jax, they fly their P-8A Poseidons - think Boeing 737 without drink service but with torpedoes - across the globe searching for enemy submarines and conducting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The crew of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Delbert Black (DDG 119) celebrate their ship’s first birthday on Sept 26th. The U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard celebrate birthday parties on FANG Drive at the Jacksonville Air National Guard Base. Sept 2nd is WWII’s Victory over Japan Day (V-J Day) marking the Japanese formal surrender aboard USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. Uncle Sam Day is the 13th and Sept 14th is Ombudsman Appreciation Day; established to appreciate those who support Navy families and enable Sailors and commands to focus on mission requirements. September days of reflection and remembrance include the 20th anniversary of the horrific events on September 11, 2001 identified as Patriot Day and the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. POW/MIA Recognition Day on Sept 17th prompts Americans to remember and make sure we account for those who have never returned. One of Liberty Life’s favorite days is also Sept 17th - Citizenship and Constitution Day, honoring the foundation for living the liberty life. Sept 26th is Gold Star Mothers and Families Day, honoring the mothers, fathers and families of fallen military service members who have received The Gold Star, the military award no one wants. September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Help and support are available 24/7 at 800-273-8255 and SuicidePreventionLifeLine.Org. We encourage you to visit TheFireWatch.Org for awareness, connection and prevention tips. 12 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
OCTOBER October, and the cover of this issue, starts off with the Navy’s very first Unmanned Patrol Squadron (VUP 19), homeported at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, celebrating its eighth birthday on October 1st. Known as “Big Red”, VUP 19’s mission is to operate and remotely pilot the Navy’s new, high-altitude, long-endurance, unmanned maritime surveillance and patrol vehicle, the MQ-4C Triton. The large, remotely piloted, drones The The Navy’s Navy’s MQ-4C MQ-4C Triton, Triton, Photo Photo Credit: Credit: U.S. U.S. Navy Navy have a wingspan of 131 feet, carry multiple sensors and can fly about 24 hours at a time with the capability to patrol and survey 2.7 million square miles of ocean and coastal areas in a single mission. All without onboard-crew rest or dinner break requirements. Triton’s are expected to be seen flying over The Liberty Coast much more frequently in the future. With numerous naval commands across The Liberty Coast there are, fittingly, two days for celebrating the Navy in October - the U.S. Navy Birthday and Navy Day. The United States Navy was established on October 13,1775 when the Continental Navy was authorized by the Continental Congress. The primary purpose of forming a Navy was to arm ships to cruise in search of munitions ships supplying the British Army in America. This year’s party is the 246th. That’s a lot of candles.
USS USSDetroit Detroit(LCS (LCS7), 7),Photo PhotoCredit: Credit:U.S. U.S.Navy Navy
In 1922, the Navy League proposed that the official Navy observance be on October 27th in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, a fervent champion of the Navy and former Assistant Secretary of the Navy, who had been born on that day in 1858.
Let the Navy birthday parties continue. Naval Air Station Jacksonville celebrates the 81st anniversary of its commissioning on October 15. Ron Williamson, NAS JAX Base Historian will share rare historical photos and stories about the 80 year old base at a luncheon in Downtown Jacksonville on Thursday, SEPT 2. To attend, visit NavyLeagueJax.Org/upcoming-events. Naval Station Mayport will host a few parties as the littoral combat ships, USS Detroit (LCS 7) and USS Indianapolis (LCS 17) mark their anniversaries in commissioned naval service. Liberty Life extends a crisp salute to the Navy for keeping our nation safe and the global sea lines of commerce and communication open. A cousin’s love is responsible for there being a National Day of the Deployed. While deployed in Iraq, U.S. Army Lt. Col. David Hosna’s cousin, Shelle Michaels Aberle, convinced the governor of North Dakota to support a proclamation thanking all military serving outside USS USS Indanapolis Indanapolis (LCS (LCS 17), 17), Photo Photo Credit: Credit: U.S. U.S. Navy Navy the US and recognizing their families who keep things running at home in their absence. October 26 was chosen as that is Hosna’s birthday. Consider sending a care package or note to someone deployed. Search online, call the USO at 904.778.2821 or contact me at Publisher@LibertyLifeMedia.Com for ideas. Or, do like Tony Orlando and “tie a yellow ribbon ‘round the old oak tree.”
NOVEMBER “What is November?” would be the correct question to the Jeopardy answer ”The jammed-packed season of celebrations, acknowledgements and activities honoring Veterans across The Liberty Coast.” From St Marys Georgia to St. Augustine, Florida, with lots of communities and Veterans organizations in between, the Liberty Coast celebrates their Veterans in the weeks before, on the day of and well after Veterans Day on November 11.
The University of North Florida’s Military and Veterans Resource Center provides veterans, active duty military, spouses and families with the support they need to smoothly transition from a military environment to campus life. Contact us, and start the next chapter of your journey at UNF! Phone: 904-620-5131 Email: mvrc@unf.edu unf.edu/military-veterans
From ginormous events like the City of Jacksonville’s Veterans Day Parade to home spun acknowledgements, our pro-military community passionately salutes and supports our Veterans. Visit LibertyLifeMedia.Com for the latest list of Veteran’s Day events. If you know a Marine, be sure to tell him or her “Happy Birthday” on November 10 as they celebrate the 246th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. You will surely brighten their day, even for those Veteran Marines who may not now be as lean, but will always be a Marine. The Marines, as one would expect, execute a very specific tradition of pageantry and celebration of their birthday. Read Major Michael Allen’s tribute at LibertyLifeMedia.Com/articles/usmc_246/ Military commands having November birthdays on Naval Station Mayport include the USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), a Navy warship named after the U.S. Marine Corps corporal who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for service in the Iraq War. The crews on USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) and USS Sioux City (LCS 11) will also enjoy some commissioning birthday cake in November. Many who make the military a career also have Sailors on Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham pose for a command photo, December 2, 2018. US Navy/ a family. November brings MC2 Jonathan Clay) them National Veteran and Military Family Month with the purpose of acknowledging the role, stresses and sacrifices our military families experience during a Servicemembers time in service, while showcasing the resources and support available for the betterment of military families and children. November is also Warrior Care Month which brings awareness of the programs that address the needs of wounded Warriors, promoting the services each branch of the military offers for those sick or injured in the line of duty. Recognizing the dedication and needs of family members who provide round-theclock care to loved ones, including wounded Veterans, National Family Caregivers Month raises awareness of caregiving issues and resources available for caregivers. National Veterans Small Business Week is November 1st through the 5th in 2021. The U.S. Small Business Administration “celebrates, connects, and empowers” Veteran-owned businesses and highlights the wide variety of free to low-cost entrepreneurial resources that Veteran and military entrepreneurs can access right in their neighborhood. Check out a list of local resources at LibertyLifeMedia.Com/Articles/Veteran-Owned-Small-Business-Resources. We invite you to submit your military unit’s birthday or Veteran-related resource information to share with our readers through our portal at LibertyLifeMedia. Com/Submit-News-Stories/ or send to Info@LibertyLifeMedia.Com.
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501-C3 non profit organization For Information: Call 904-214-3296 or GJCC.Net Michael Kehrt, Bourse Chairman LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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Veteran Profile The The Honorable Honorable Mose Mose L. L. Floyd. Floyd. Photo Photo Credit: Credit: Paige Paige Harriss Harriss
Pro-Military Cultural News An Update on Military and Veteran Cultural Projects
M
SETTING GOALS, SERVANT LEADERSHIP - A Veteran and Community Leader’s Mission to Help Others by David Abramowitz, Retired Army Colonel
and Jacquelyn Green; Army Veteran ......... ose Floyd would never have left the small town of Cantonment in Florida’s panhandle. However, his parents (while not formally educated themselves) emphasized hard work and education as the key for him and his eleven siblings to getting out of the small and rural town. Additionally, his 8th grade teacher, Mr. Gillis, challenged him to set goals beyond the county border.
Floyd set and accomplished goals. When selected to attend the U.S. Naval Academy, Floyd became the first in his family to attend college. Upon graduation in 1977, Floyd chose to serve in the Marine Corps because he knew it would offer the greatest challenge. Through more hard work and intentional connection with his subordinate Marines he excelled in every aspect of service. During his 15th year of military service Floyd set another goal. He was accepted to law school. Armed with his law degree from Georgetown, Floyd and his wife, Jill, set a new goal to return to north Florida and help those less fortunate. He became a prosecuting attorney in Jacksonville and received the State Attorney’s Rookie of the Year award for his first-year effort. He did his research, went to the crime scenes, and visited all the witnesses he needed to evaluate each case, leaving no stone unturned. He had a 96% conviction Judge Judge Mose Mose Floyd Floyd with with aa Veteran Veteran Treatment Treatment Court Court Graduate, Graduate, rate of all the felony cases he handled. his his family family and and VTC VTC Mentor. Mentor. Credit: Credit: David David Abramowitz Abramowitz Mose Floyd is now a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Marine Corps, has a law degree from Georgetown University and is a sitting judge in Duval County. Taking his innate need to serve others to the next level, the Honorable Mose L. Floyd also presides over the Veterans Treatment Court. These courts give Veterans struggling with addiction and/or mental illnesses, who end up in the criminal justice system, an opportunity to restore to living a sober and stable life. Judge Floyd’s leadership has helped 180 Veterans set goals and manage the challenges of the 12 - 24 month treatment program. Judge Floyd also believes Veterans should be recognized for their service and sacrifice. “ We, as a nation, owe the Vietnam Veterans a proper welcome home in recognition for their honorable and faithful service under fire,” said Judge Floyd. Having set another goal, he is leading a “Welcome Home to Vietnam Veterans” event scheduled for November 14 at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. “I am so pleased to be associated with this effort to try to correct a great wrong for the Vietnam Heroes who still survive in the greater Jacksonville area,” declared Judge Floyd. He continued, “The event is open to all Veterans and their families. Governor Desantis and Mayor Curry have been invited. Our special guest speaker is Superbowl Champion Rocky Bleier from the Pittsburgh Steelers, a Vietnam Veteran.” For more about the Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans event , email David.J.Abramowitz@gmail.com or call 770-688-5847. 14 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
The inventory of military museums and Veteran memorials throughout the eight counties of The Liberty Coast is growing. Several projects are in various stages of development; here is an update. The twists and turns of the changes coming to Jacksonville’s Downtown sports complex area and adjacent riverfront continue. Among the proposed sports performance complex, hotels and residential towers, acknowledgements of the city’s robust naval heritage and pro-military culture are in the mix. JACKSONVILLE NAVAL MUSEUM While the final footprint of a proposed military heritage park, naval museum complex and relocation of the Veterans Memorial Wall is far from finalized, the most decorated post-World War II ship ever built, along with her 18 battle stars, is much closer to becoming the foundation of the Jacksonville Naval Museum. With a 17-0 vote in August, The Jacksonville City Council approved the Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association (JHNSA) plan to move the naval museum ship, the former USS Orleck (DD 886), to Jacksonville. Depending on weather - AKA hurricane season Navy Navy Warship Warship Museum Museum Orleck Orleck at at her her berth berth in in Louisiana Louisiana and the results of a late Summer/early Fall dry dock & hull inspection, the JHNSA is working towards towing the ship from Texas and down the St Johns River to her forever home in Downtown Jacksonville in 2021. More at LibertyLifeMedia.Com, search “Orleck”. BRINGING USS JACKSONVILLE HOME? Since its inception in October 1775 there has been only one Navy warship named after Jacksonville, Florida. That special “boat” is a nuclear powered, 688 Los Angeles Class submarine. The USS Jacksonville (SSN 699) was commissioned in, and made its first port visit to, its namesake city in 1981. After 38 years of service defending our nation, the JAX’s operational career is over. She was inactivated in 2019 and is going through the decommissioning process. As transitioning a nuclear submarine into a museum is overtly problematic, a growing effort is underway to preserve her legacy and acquire the sail structure of USS Jacksonville for display - ideally at the Jacksonville Naval Museum. NATIONAL POW/MIA MEMORIAL & MUSEUM On the Clay-Duval County border, fundraising for Phase I of The National POW/MIA Memorial & Museum at Cecil Field is underway with strong momentum towards the $500,000 goal. Operating from the Chapel of the High-Speed Pass, their mission is to establish the national memorial to honor all former prisoners of war and advocate for the reconciliation of those missing in action. Phase I honors and remembers the former Naval Air Station Cecil Field (1941-1999) where many of the Vietnam War era POW’s and MIA’s were stationed prior to deploying into the war. More at POWMIAMemorial.org. GOLD STAR FAMILY PARKWAY On track for a Fall 2021 official opening, the 3.4 mile parkway will make it much easier to get to the Jacksonville National Cemetery. The parkway connects I-95’s Pecan Park Rd exit (366) to the cemetery.
WHISTLING DEATH 5KM & 10KM
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Voices of Liberty
sides of this issue and that’s probably the way that it should be. What’s important is that each of them will work their way through this in their own way. We need to respect that and to give them the time and space to help do it.” In pondering if the service and sacrifices in Afghanistan were worth it, Major General James O. Eifert, The Adjutant General of Florida’s National Guard, reflected in a message to his team, “To watch (the Afghanistan experience) end like this is gut-wrenching to say the least,...but there’s one thing I’m sure of... you will go down as the heroes of this story...what you did MATTERED! MG Eifert continued, “There has been no foreign terror attack on United States soil since 9/11. That is no coincidence - that is because of you. Your families have been safe on our sovereign soil for nearly two decades because of the service and sacrifice of you and your brothers and sisters in arms.” Former Marine, Afghanistan Veteran and wounded warrior Johnny Joey Jones shared: “If you want to know if your service, your sacrifice mattered, walk out the door today and go into your town. See if people are afraid. See if people are wearing helmets and flak jackets and looking for a bomb around the corner because they are not.”
PERSPECTIVES ON AFGHANISTAN: Working Our Way Through It
By Joe Snowberger
m
A
s this issue of Liberty Life went to press, Afghanistan had just fallen quickly and violently - to the Taliban. Being mindful that our readers include military, Veterans, caregivers, loved ones of those lost in Afghanistan and those who carry the wounds of war, we rounded up some perspectives and reflections to share and in all candor, also support our staff’s distilling of the situation. With regards to processing the events in Afghanistan, Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Defense shared, “Afghan War Veterans are sharing strong views from all
18 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
Jones emphasized, “Most people are absolutely oblivious to the threats in this world and that’s thanks to you. So even if our government can screw things up in a hurry, you spent 20 years keeping us safe and thank God for you.” Retired Brigadier General Michael P. Fleming,weighed in. “As a Veteran, my main concern is the mental health of the warriors who served in Afghanistan.” Gen. Fleming added, “This is a great time to reach out to a Veteran, family member or anyone who may be impacted by the Afghanistan situation to find out if they need any support.”
If you find a Veteran who needs help please have him/her contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or VA Chat Online at VeteransCrisisLine.Net. For more connection and outreach resources, visit LibertyLifeMedia.Com/Articles/Afghanistan-Connect.
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Things To Do on The Liberty Coast... October Activities
FALL Calendar September Activities
GUARDIANS OF THE FIRST COAST: BUILDING READINESS FOR WORLD WAR II EXHIBIT showcases artifacts, oral histories, first-hand stories, photographs, and videos that connect local people to world events. Ongoing at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, StAugustineLighthouse.Org or 904-829-0745. HISTORY OF NAS JACKSONVILLE Base historian, Ron Williamson, will share rare historical photos, stories, about the 80 year old base at a Navy League luncheon on the 22nd floor of the VyStar Downtown tower. 11:30 a.m., Thursday, SEPT 2, 76 S Laura St, Jacksonville. Validated parking, advanced registration appreciated at NavyLeagueJax.Org/Upcoming-Events, $25. ST JOHNS COUNTY HOMELESS VETERANS STAND DOWN provides basic needs and support services, dental screenings, showers, haircuts, tents, bikes, clothing, sundries, and connection, volunteer opportunities. 9 a.m., Saturday, SEPT 11, Elks Lodge 829, 1420 A1A S in St Augustine. Info and transportation 904.209.6160. DEADLINE - JACKSONVILLE VETERANS DAY PARADE APPLICATION to participate in the City of Jacksonville’s Veterans Day Parade on Nov 11 is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, SEPT 12. Application must be submitted online at COJSpecialEvents.formstack. com/forms/veterans_day_parade_2021_application. More info at (904) 255-5422 or Events@COJ.Net DEDICATION OF MARY HELEN HOFF HONORARY ROADWAY Join the Clay County Board of Commissioners and Veterans at the roadway designation and marker unveiling for the inspiration of the National POW/MIA flag. 10:00 a.m., Friday, SEPT 17, Moody Avenue Park, 3510 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL, free.
WHISTLING DEATH 10KM AND 5KM Celebrating the F4U Corsair, nicknamed “Whistling Death.” Races will traverse the airbase where Marine Corps fighter pilots were trained. 8 a.m., Saturday, OCT 2, Military Museum of North Florida in Green Cove Springs, 1stPlaceSports.Com/Races/WhistlingDeath, $25 - $30.
NAVY LEAGUE SALUTE TO VETERANS DINNER honoring Korean War Veterans, Korean War history and cultural programs, benefitting Naval Sea Cadets Corps youth training and Tillie Fowler Memorial Navy ROTC scholarship fund at Jacksonville University. 6 p.m., Thursday, NOV 4, NAS Jax’s River Cove (O Club). Base access NOT required. Register at NavyLeagueJax.Org/Upcoming-Events, $50.
UNIVERSITY of NORTH FLORIDA VETERANS DAY TRIBUTE with keynote by Dr. George Candler, Director, Masters of Public Administration programs and Navy Veteran. 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, NOV 9, VETS ON TAP AT CATTY SHACK RANCH Veterans Plaza, UNF Student Union, 1 UNF Dr., WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Join Veterans networking Jacksonville, MVRC@UNF.Edu, free. with the really big cats while enjoying food trucks and VETERANS COUNCIL OF ST JOHNS experiencing the mission of this non-profit sanctuary COUNTY VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION for rescued exotic cats. 12 - 3 p.m., Saturday, OCT Come early,enjoy patriotic entertainment, the Vietnam 2, 1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville. Tix and Info at Traveling Memorial Wall and Global War on VetsOnTap.Org. Terrorism Wall, engage Veteran organization displays ST MARYS ROCK SHRIMP FESTIVAL 48th and representatives. Doors open 9:30 a.m., annual day of famous rock shrimp dinners, parade, Celebration at 11 a.m., Thursday, NOV 11, Anastasia 5K/10K, music, vendors all on historic St Mary’s Baptist Church, 1650 A1A S, St Augustine, waterfront. Parade at 10 a.m., dinners sold VeteransCouncilSJC.Org, free. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, OCT 9, St Mary, JACKSONVILLE VETERANS DAY PARADE Georgia. Much more info at SMKiwanis.Com. The City of Jacksonville’s parade, largest in Florida, USO ARMED FORCES HALF MARATHON honors those who have served with decorative floats, AND FREEDOM 5K marching bands, Veterans groups, and more. Start Join us for the last race on the historic half marathon near the Prime Osborn Convention Center. 11:01 a.m. course as USO transitions into the reimagined Thursday, NOV 11, Prime F. Osborn III Convention “Tri-Bridge Challenge” next year. Walk, run, raise Center, 1000 Water St., Downtown, SpecialEvents. funds for a military branch team, finisher medals, COJ.Net, free. technical shirts, fantastic post-race celebrations and more. Free for active duty, reserves, national guard and 10th ANNUAL SALUTE TO VETERANS 5K dependents E-6 and below and 50% off registration for RUN/WALK & PATRIOTIC PAWS WALK E-7 and above with ID. Sponsorships available, contact Legacy Veterans Day-related 5K along St. Johns River, presented by VyStar, finisher cash prizes, medals, shirts, Charlie Tramazzo at 904.635.7801. 7 a.m. SHARP, Saturday, OCT 16, Registration and more info at Jax. family-oriented village, patriotic events, food, drinks, bounce houses, games. 8 a.m., Saturday, NOV 13, USO.Org/Events/145, free - $65. Patriotic Paws Parade at 8:45 a.m., 300 A Philip 62nd ANNUAL CRACKER DAY CELEBRATION Randolph Blvd Jacksonville, SaluteToVeteransRun. Family-friendly, showcases Spanish cracker horses ItsYourRace.Com/Event.aspx?id=14612 and celebrates “cracker” cowboys who used whips to ANTIQUE CAR SHOW & OPEN HOUSE Enjoy round up cattle. Horse and cattle games, barrel rolls, music, snacks and good conversations and awesome BBQ. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, OCT 16, Gates cars at the former NAS Cecil Field. All donations open at 6 a.m., St. Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 benefit the American Cancer Society. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. State Road 207, Elkton, FL, $5 per car. Saturday, NOV 13, Cecil Pines Adult Living BALD EAGLE SQUADRON LUNCHEON Community, 6008 Lake Cove Ave., Cecil Commerce Association of Naval Aviation connects and educates Center, CecilPines.Org, free. all with interest in overall military status and importance WELCOME HOME VIETNAM VETERANS of Naval Aviation, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Thursday, OCT Featuring Rocky Bleier, Vietnam Veteran & 21, Holiday Inn & Suites Orange Park, 620 Wells Rd, Pittsburgh Steeler Superbowl Champion, everyone is Orange Park, BaldEagleSquadron.Org, $20. invited to a hero’s welcome including a procession of honor of Vietnam Veterans. Sunday, NOV 14, 12:55 - 3 p.m., (doors open at Noon), VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, 300 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville. Register and sponsorships at JaxBar.Org/VietnamVetWelcomeHome,free. WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT CARRY
SEVEN BRIDGES POW/MIA REMEMBRANCE RIDE from Jax Veterans Memorial Wall to National POW/MIA Memorial at Cecil Field for remembrance ceremony. Open to all riders, registration 9 - 11:30 a.m., KSO Noon, SEPT 18, arrive 1:30 p.m., 1145 FORWARD 5K is a most powerful, one-of-a-kind E. Adams St., Downtown Jacksonville, more info event you’ll ever experience. It’s a unique opportunity from Denny Luke, 904-403-0141, FREE. to take action for wounded warriors. 8:00 a.m., Saturday, NOV 6, Wounded Warrior Project HQ, NATIONAL POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY includes ruck/run/walk challenge, car and bike show, 4899 Belfort Rd Suite 300, Jacksonville, Register at CarryFoward@WoundedWarriorProject.org, free to $35. live entertainment, kids zone, 9 a.m., lunch 11:30
November Activities
a.m. - 1 p.m., Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy ceremony at 2 p.m., Saturday, SEPT 18th, Chapel of the High-Speed Pass, Cecil Commerce Center, 6112 POW-MIA Memorial Pkwy, Jacksonville. Info & register for lunch, $10, at POWMIAMemorial.Org. 20 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
JACKSONVILLE PORCHFEST is an awesome music and community festival in the historic Springfield neighborhood. Stroll among the porch stages and enjoy live music. 12 - 8p.m., Saturday, NOV 6. Info at JacksonvillePorchFest.Org, free.
BALD EAGLE SQUADRON LUNCHEON Association of Naval Aviation networking with aviators and all interested in importance of Naval Aviation in the defense of U. S. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Thursday, NOV 18, Holiday Inn & Suites Orange Park, 620 Wells Rd, Orange Park, BaldEagleSquadron.Org, $20. NIGHTS of LIGHTS The annual winter celebration is back in the Ancient City. Enjoy extended hours at local establishments, special tours, and millions of lights. NOV 20-Jan. 31, Downtown St. Augustine, VisitStAugustine.com/Event/Nights-Lights, free.
Tr a n s i t i o n i n g M i l i t a r y a n d V e t e r a n R e a d y J o b Tr a i n i n g and Higher Education on The Liberty Coast SM
Jacksonville University: Private Institution. 904-256-7000. JU.Edu
ACI Learning Hub – Jacksonville: IT and Cybersecurity Career Training for Veterans. 904-399-3555. ACILearning.Com/Learning-Hubs/IT-Training-Jacksonville
Keiser University: Private not-for-profit University 888-453-4737. KeiserUniversity.Edu/Jacksonville
American Electrical Contracting: Electrician Training and Apprenticeship Program. 904-737-7770. American-Electrical.Com
NEFBA Apprenticeship: Carpentry, Electrical, HVAC & Plumbing Classes Accept GI Bill. 904-421-0296. NEFBAApprenticeship.Org
Ashford University: Public Online Intuition. UGAC.Edu
New Horizons: IT Training and Certifications. Accept Vocational Rehabilitation. 904-564-9500. NewHorizons-Jax.Com
ATP Flight School: ATP CTP GI Bill Eligible. 904-595-7950. ATPFlightSchool.Com Aveda Institute: Cosmetology Esthetician and Massage, G.I. Bill. 904-647-4575. Beaveda.Com/Locations/Jacksonville
Nova Southeastern University: Private Institution 904-245-8910. Nova.Edu/Campuses/Jacksonville
Barry University: School of Professional and Career Education. 904-619-5105. Barry.Edu Brenau University: Private Institution. 904-900-7969. Brenau.Edu/Campus/Jacksonville CDA Technical Institute: Commercial Diving and Underwater Welding School. 888-974-2232. CDA.Edu
Parisian Spa Institute: Cosmology, Electrolysis, Massage. Accept GI Bill. 904-350-9796. PSIJax.Edu Paul Mitchell: 904-713-2700. PaulMitchell.Edu/Jacksonville Premier Coast Real Estate School LLC: 904-414-2727. FloridaRELicense.Com Quality Maritime Training: Certificate Programs and Practical Training Courses. Accepts GI Bill. 904-683-1985. QualityMaritimeTraining.Com
Columbia College: A Variety of Quality Degree Options 904-338-9150. CCIS.Edu The Citadel: Undergraduate through Graduate College, the Citadel is military and Veteran centric. 843-225-3294. Go.Citadel.Edu
Roadmaster Drivers School: Commercial Driver’s License training. Accepts GI Bill. 904-783-3333. Roadmaster.Com/Locations/Jacksonville-Florida
DeVry University: Online College Class & Online Degrees 904-367-4942. DeVry.Edu Edward Waters College: Florida’s First HBCU & Private Institution. 904-470-8000. EWC.Edu Electrical Training Alliance of Jacksonville: Apprenticeship in Electrical Training Programs. 904-737-7533. ETAJax.Org
Saint Leo University: Private Institution. 855-545-2925. SaintLeo.Edu/Jacksonville-Education-Center Southern Illinois University: 618-453-2121. SIU.Edu Strayer University: 904-538-1000. Strayer.Edu/Campus-Locations/Florida/Baymeadows
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Aviation and Aerospace Education. 904-802-7070. Jacksonville@ERAU.Edu
Sterling Flight Training: Rotary Transition Program, G.I. Bill and Veteran discount. 904-642-9683. WsterlingFlight.Com/
Florida State College at Jacksonville: Public Institution with Military & Veteran Resource Center. 904-646-2300. FSCJ.Edu
Trident University: Military Friendly School. 800-579-3197. Trident.Edu
Florida Training Academy: Specializes in CNA, CPR, and Forklift Operator safety training. 904-551-0918. FLTraining.Com
Troy University: 800-414-5756. Troy.Edu Tulsa Welding School: 904-425-1487. TWS.Edu
Fullstack Academy at University of North Florida: Immersive Software Engineering Coding Bootcamp. 904-620-4200. Bootcamp.UNF.Edu
University of North Florida: Public University with Military Veterans Resource Center. 904-620-1000. UNF.Edu
Grand Canyon University: Private Institution. 602-247-3143. GCU.Edu
UNF Division of Continuing Education: Professional Education & Training Programs. 904-620-4200. UNF.Edu/CE
Holladay Aviation: Military and Veteran discounts. 904-423-0790. HolladayAviation.com J-Tech Institute: Automotive, Diesel, HVAC, Marine & RV, and Transportation programs. Veteran financial aid programs and benefits. 877-447-0442. JTech.Org/About-us
Watson School of Real Estate: WatsonSchoolOfRealEstate.Com Webster University: Private Liberal Arts Institution. 904-268-3037. Webster.Edu/Jacksonville Western Governors University: Online, affordable, career-focused, accelerated degrees, WGU.Edu
Jacksonville Plumbers Trust: Plumbers and Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeships. 904-781-2112. UA234.Com
THANK YOU
FOR YOUR SERVICE!
MILITARY TUITION PRICING, VETERAN’S BENEFITS AND SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES* (FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY)
TRAIN FOR A
NEW CAREER NOW!
WELDING • HVAC/R • ELECTRICAL (888) 926-3034 TWS.edu 3500 SOUTHSIDE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32216
Accredited School, ACCSC. TWS-Jacksonville located at 1750 Southside Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32216 is recognized by ACCSC as a satellite location of TWS-Jacksonville located at 3500 Southside Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32216, which is a branch campus of Tulsa Welding School, located at 2545 E. 11th St., Tulsa, OK 74104. Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, License No. 2331, and by the Mississippi Commission on Proprietary School and College Registration, License No. C-668. Licensure indicates only that minimum standards have been met; it is not an endorsement or guarantee of quality. Licensure is not equivalent to or synonymous with accreditation by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This institution is regulated by: Office for Career and Technical Schools, 10 N. Senate Ave, Suite SE 308, Indianapolis, IN 46204; OCTS@dwd.in.gov; http://www.in.gov/dwd/2731.htm. GI Bill® Eligible (check with local campus for specific eligibility). For more information about our programs, please visit our website at: http:// www.tws.edu/student-resources/regulatory-information/. *Scholarships available to those who qualify. Candidates need to refer to the scholarship information page to determine topic of essay (where applicable) and must meet all regular admissions requirements and be scheduled to start training prior to applying for a scholarship. If a student changes his/her re-enter date, the scholarship award may be forfeited. Scholarships are not transferable and most scholarships cannot be used in conjunction with any other scholarship TWS offers. In most cases, only one award will be given per student. If a student is eligible for multiple scholarships, the scholarship that is most beneficial to the student will be awarded. Scholarships will be distributed incrementally over the entire duration of the program. Scholarship eligibility requires continuous enrollment. Failure to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress may result in the probation and possible loss of scholarship. Termination from training may also result in the loss of a scholarship, which may increase your tuition obligation to TWS. Tuition charges will be based on the amount reflected on your Enrollment Agreement. See the reverse side of your Enrollment Agreement or the School Catalog for the school’s refund policy. STEG-02-1285
LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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News & Info
Yes, The Navy Manages A 50,000 Acre Forest
New Jacksonville VA Medical Center Opening In 2023
USS USS Constitution, Constitution, Photo Photo Credit: Credit: U. U. S. S. Navy Navy Department Department of Veterans of Veterans Affairs Affairs is going is going to open to aopen newafacility new facility near River near River City City Marketplace. Marketplace. (Provided (Provided by by VA) VA)
A new VA Medical Center in Jacksonville is on track for opening in the summer of 2023. The 164,000-square-foot center is being built on the city’s northside near the River City Marketplace and the airport on the Max Leggett Parkway. The Duval County - Jacksonville market is the most densely Veteran populated area in the North Florida region. The new facility will replace two older centers currently in use on Southpoint Drive North and South University Boulevard at the Memorial Health plaza. The Jacksonville VA Outpatient Clinic, located on Jefferson Street near Downtown Jacksonville, will remain open. The estimated $40 million facility will serve the more than 45,000 Veterans currently enrolled in the region and has the capacity to serve many more Veterans. It will open with a 20 year lease and offer primary care, mental health care, imaging, specialty medical care as well as having 30 beds for residential rehabilitation. This will be the second new VA medical facility to open on The Liberty Coast. The Leo C. Chase Jr. VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic, named after St. Johns County’s first Soldier to die in the Vietnam War, recently opened its doors in St. Johns County - St. Augustine.
Large white oak is a highly desired wood for “Old Ironsides” to meet the unique needs of the 224 year old ship. Managing and maintaining a sustainable source for the heritage-rich cause ensures the quality, quantity, sizes and dimensions of timber required for USS Constitution is available. The Navy’s management also ensures old-growth forests still remain while protecting wildlife and maintaining a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
A New Marine Leader on Blount Island
Private First-Class Leo C. Chase Jr. was St Johns County’s first Soldier to die in the Vietnam War.
See the full story at LibertyLifeMedia.Com/Articles/Leo-C-Chase-Jr/
USO Announces 2021 Jacksonville Jaguar Ticket Sales With a special thanks to the Jacksonville Jaguars for their continued and exceptional support of our military and their families, tickets for the 2021 Jacksonville Jaguars season will be on sale at the NAS Jax and Mayport USO offices. The $20 tickets will be available to Active Duty, Gold Star Families, National Guard, Reservists, Retirees And Dependent Spouses as well as Veterans and DOD personnel depending on availability. Deployable military commands may also request blocks of game day tickets. For all the details and the sales schedule of this program which ensures every eligible person has an equal opportunity to enjoy the NFL Experience, visit Jax.USO.Org/Stories/20. 22 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
In early 1940, what was originally a land purchase survey for an ordnance storage facility for Navy weaponry was the beginnings of the U. S. Navy’s forest management program. Constitution Grove is a 50,000-acre old growth forest in Indiana, managed by Naval Supply Activity Crane to provide replacement lumber, primarily white oak, for the USS Constitution.
One of our only constants in life is change. Colonel John S. Sattely recently relieved Colonel Michael J. Livingston as the commander of the Marine Corps Blount Island Command (BICmd) in Jacksonville, Florida. A 1996 graduate of The Citadel, Colonel Sattely also earned a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the U. S. Naval War College and numerous certificates in all things related to logistics. Most recently Sattely was a strategic Col. Col. John John S. S. Sattely, Sattely, left, left, accepts accepts BICmd’s BICmd’s colors colors from from logistics planner in the U.S. Central Col. Col. Michael Michael J.J. Livingston.Photo Livingston.Photo by by Nathan Nathan Hanks, Hanks, USMC. USMC. Command in Tampa and had previously commanded the 2nd Transportation Support Battalion Camp Lejeune, NC. Colonel Livingston is from Stanton, California. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1989 and was originally an aviation mechanic and Plane Captain- responsible for making sure that Marine F/A-18’s are fit to fly- in a squadron which played a significant operational role in Desert Storm. Armed with a bachelor’s degree from the University of San Diego, this Marine “Mustang” was commissioned a Second Lieutenant through the NROTC program in 1996. Colonel Livingston will be changing careers after serving our nation for 25 years.
Colonel Michael J. Livingston served his country with honor for over 25 years. Photo Credit: USMC
Colonel Sattely, welcome to The Liberty Coast. Colonel Livingston, thank you for your leadership at BIC and your service.
Just Minutes Away On A1A
“Serving the community for over 25 years.” — Angelo Fanelli 2016 HYUNDAI TUCSON SPORT
2008 MAZDA MIATA SPORT
$15,954
EXCELLENT CONDITION! SUPER CLEAN!
2018 TOYOTA RAV4 ADVENTURE
$16,954
2017 FORD EXPLORER XLT
A3853
2018 TOYOTA TACOMA SR
21334A
2016 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 LT
2018 GENESIS G80 3.8
21337B
$30,954
$25,454
$29,954
21277B
LOW MILES!
$26,954
2018 TOYOTA TACOMA SR5
2020 FORD MUSTANG ECOBOOST PREMIUM
$30,954
A3838
LOW MILES!
A3877
LOW MILES!
A3884
LOADED, LOW MILES!
2016 JEEP WRANGLER SPORT
2018 HONDA CR-V TOURING
$27,954
$21,454
21225A
LOW MILES!
21252A
LOW MILES!
A3825
$19,754
2018 CHRYSLER 300 TOURING
$24,954
2018 SUBARU WRX
$26,954
21126B
LOW MILES, LEATHER!
A3859A
$24,454
ONLY 24K MILES!
2020 TOYOTA CAMRY LE
A3881
A3885A
LOW LOW MILES!
2016 VOLVO S80 T5
$35,954
21301A
SUPER CLEAN!
$30,954
2019 RAM 1500 CLASSIC BIG HORN
A3869A
$36,454
Show your Military ID for $500 OFF!** *Must show this coupon and military ID before negotiations.
464037 State Road 200, Yulee, Florida *Not all buyers will qualify. Does not include tax, tag, title and dealer fees. W.A.C. See dealer for details. **MUST present coupon before negotiations.
904-775-4568 LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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Veterans & Military Spouses Serving our country, You’ve acquired unique leadership skills and qualities that easily apply to leading a nonprofit organization, for the greater good of your community. Do you have a passion for helping others? Are you currently working for or volunteering for a nonprofit that needs help? Do you want to start a nonprofit?
Pathways© Nonprofit Workshop
REGISTER AT VAVARDE.COM/WORKSHOP OR CALL (904) 357-0833
Vavarde Strategic Funding invites you to attend Pathways© Nonprofit Workshop, Monday evenings from October 18 to November 15, to learn how to transform your ideas and passion into a sustainable nonprofit future.
1015 Deerwood Park. Building 200, Suite 250 Jacksonville, Florida 32256 vavarde.com
BRAVO ZULU Bravo Zulu (BZ) is a naval signal meaning “Well Done” with regards to one’s performance, operations or action. Liberty Life shares the following Bravo Zulus from across The Liberty Coast. BRAVO ZULU to: UNMANNED PATROL SQUADRON ONE NINE (VUP-19) Big Red Sailors of the Quarter: Intelligence Specialist First Class Matthew Howard and Aviation Maintenance Administrationmen Second Class Destin Thomas Big RED’s of the Month: Lieutenant Shockley, Aviation Maintenance A dministrationmen Second Class Destin Thomas, Aviation Electronics Technician Second Class Desiree Warren and Logistics Specialist Third Class Tony Huynh Naval Aircrewman Operator Chief Ryan Gray on your successful tour and to Mrs. Kaitlin Gray for selflessly serving as the VUP-19 Ombudsman Aviation Electronics Technician Senior Chief Clarence Morrow on your promotion and to the MQ-4C Triton for making the cover of Liberty Life USS COOPERSTOWN (LCS 23) Cooperstown’s Deck department on the certification of Gunner’s Mate Chief Olson as a Search and Rescue Swimmer Blue Jacket of the Quarter, Culinary Specialist Seaman Combs; Sailor of the Quarter, Electronics Technician Second Class Stull; Senior Sailor of the Quarter, Electronics Technician First Class Mobley Sonar Technician (Surface) Second Class Bell on your promotion
The Love of the Seas Starts with the Sea Services: U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard & Merchant Marine
NAVAL AIR STATION JACKSONVILLE Senior Sailor of the Quarter, Master At Arms First Class (SW) Briauna Bellatoni; Sailor of the Quarter, Gunner’s Mate Second Class (EXW) Zachary Wright; Junior Sailor of the Quarter, Boatswain’s Mate Third Class (SW) Vincent Helfer; Blue Jacket of the Quarter, Air Traffic Controller Airman James Looney REGION LEGAL SERVICE OFFICE Sailors of the Quarter: Legalman First Class Jones and Aviation Ordiananceman Second Class Mcelroy NAVY OPERATIONAL SUPPORT CENTER JAX Sailors of the Quarter: Information Systems Technician First Class Alyssa Holland, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Yosman Rodriguez, and Hospital Corpsman Third Class Tikerrah Young PATROL SQUADRON EIGHT (VP-8) FIGHTING TIGERS Sailors of the Quarter: Aviation Electrician’s Mate First Class Kyle Starkey and Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Jordan Pfrommer PATROL SQUADRON FIVE (VP-5) MAD FOXES Sailors of the Quarter: Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Jazmine Pope and Naval Aircrewman (Operator) First Class Sean Sivley Sailor’s in the Spotlight: Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Joseph Barrett, Aviation Maintenance Administration Airman Apprentice John T. Brown, Navy Aircrewman (Operator) Third Class Preston Hayes
OUR MISSIONS:
Enhance the morale of active duty Sea Services personnel and their families. Inform Congress and the American people of the importance of strong U.S. seapower. Support and educate young people about the Sea Services through youth programs like the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Naval Junior ROTC, and others. HAVE FUN doing it with behind the scenes tours and interesting & informative events.
Anyone interested in our mission is welcome. No prior military affiliation required. Join us as an individual, a business, or as a Community Affiliate.
We’ll See You at an Upcoming Event Learn more at
NavyLeagueJax.Org 24 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
NAVAL HOSPITAL JACKSONVILLE Sailors of the Quarter: Hospital Corpsman Third Class Randall Gross and Hospital Corpsman Seaman Jessica Surduy TRANSIENT PERSONNEL UNIT/PRE-TRIAL CONFINEMENT FACILITY JAX Sailors of the Quarter: Gas Turbine System Technician First Class Calvin Neckel and Gas Turbine System Technician Second Class Matthew Thorne FLEET AREA CONTROL AND SURVEILLANCE FACILITY JAX Sailor of the Quarter: Operations Specialist First Class Chelsea Fisher CENTER FOR NAVAL AVIATION TECHNICAL TRAINING UNIT (CNATTU) JACKSONVILLE Aviation Support Equipment Technician First Class (AW/SW) Timothy Veitch on 20 years of service. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Shipmate. 1 Master Chief Avionics Technician Antweiler and Aviation Electrician’s Mate Senior Chief Boyts on their promotions. Submit your Bravo Zulus to be considered for publication to Info@LibertyLifeMedia.Com.
EASY FINANCING!
P3224A
P3184A
PL3158
PRX3001B
P3235A
P3209A
2012 RAM 1500 SLT
2015 TOYOTA CAMRY XLE
2019 TOYOTA COROLLA L
2019 HONDA ACCORD LX 1.5T
2018 NISSAN MURANO S
2017 FORD F-150 XL
$17,988
$18,655
$18,988
$24,988
$25,988
$29,988
P3221A
MZ184079A
LOW MILES, WHY BUY NEW?
M0119520A
PR3195B
LOW MILES!
PR3191
MZ233243A
2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLC 300
2017 CADILLAC XT5 LUXURY
2020 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA RF
2019 TOYOTA RAV4 XLE PREMIUM
2020 CADILLAC XT5 PREMIUM
2019 LINCOLN NAUTILUS SELECT
$29,988
$32,988
$33,988
$34,988
$41,990
$42,988
LOADED, LOW MILES!
GRAND TOURING, 5K MILES!
LOW MILES!
WHY BUY NEW?
LOADED, LOW MILES!
904-694-3060
FIELDS CADILLAC JACKSONVILLE
7999 BLANDING BLVD, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32244 *With approved credit. Not all buyers will qualify. Does not include tax, tag or title. See dealer for full details.
EASY FINANCING!
PR3043A
PR3005A
PR3031
NZ106005A
P3029A
M0136342A
2011 KIA OPTIMA EX
2019 HONDA CIVIC LX
2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GL 350
2017 CADILLAC XTS LUXURY
2017 CADILLAC ATS LUXURY
2019 HYUNDAI TUCSON NIGHT
$10,900
$19,500
$24,490
$24,690
$26,590
$27,990
MR378665B
MZ207611A
BLUETEC, LOW MILES, LOADED!
PR3003
LOW MILES, LOADED!
PR3000A
PR3051
P3048A
2019 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN SE
2019 DODGE DURANGO SXT
2018 CADILLAC CT6 2.0L TURBO
2017 LEXUS GX 460
2021 RAM 1500 BIG HORN
2018 GMC SIERRA 1500 DENALI
$27,990
$31,290
$36,900
$37,990
$48,900
$51,990
ONLY 24K MILES!
ONLY 3K MILES!
FIELDS CADILLAC ST. AUGUSTINE
375 OUTLET MALL BLVD, ST AUGUSTINE, FL 32084 *With approved credit. Not all buyers will qualify. Does not include tax, tag or title. See dealer for full details.
LOADED, LOW MILES!
LOW MILES!
LOW MILES!
904-694-3050 LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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Pro- Military 5 Sisters Spirit Vodka
Transition Tips CONGRATULATIONS, YOU GOT THE INTERVIEW!
is women owned and distilled in Jacksonville, Florida. The Sisters, originally from Ireland, are celebrating 15 years of success at their world renowned, Culhane’s Irish Pubs.
Oh my, Now What? By Brian Bilski
C
ongratulations. A prospective employer called and would like to schedule you for an interview. What do you do now?
There are many valuable articles on the internet and Youtube that will give you tips and suggestions on how to ace the interview. Let’s go into a little more depth from the recruiter perspective. The recruiter has put in a lot of work into getting this position filled from initial meetings with the hiring manager (HM) to create the requisition, reviewing requirements, reviewing and forwarding candidates to the HM. The recruiter’s priority is to make sure candidates are prepared and do well in the interview. In preparing many candidates for their interview, I emphasize that prior preparation is key to success in the interview. As mentioned in earlier articles, the position description (PD) that convinced you to apply was, in major part, written by the HM who will be interviewing you. I guarantee you - questions will center on skills and requirements in the PD. You need to know the PD inside and out and be able to articulate how your skills and experience relate directly to it. Next, be prepared for situational and behavioral type questions. Situational questions will challenge you to share your approach on how you handle certain situations or solve certain challenges. For example - “If you owned a window cleaning company, how would you go about giving us an estimate to clean all the windows in a 50 story building?” You could not give the right answer, although the goal is to understand your thought process. Secondly are behavioral type questions that assess your character and how you handle potentially challenging situations. For example - “How would you respond to a conversation between co-workers that was clearly offensive to others?”
This unique proprietary vaporization step is a family loved recipe.
PROMILITARY BUSINESS
Enjoy a Crisp Drop of Irish Sass in Every Glass!
@5SISTERSVODKA 5SistersVodka.Com 26 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
To answer either of these questions I recommend using the STAR method, Situation, Task, Action, and Result (Google STAR). Using STAR will help you provide examples of the experience and skills you possess for the position. The goal is to share examples from your past experience and how you successfully handled similar situations. The last tip I give to my candidates is to go into the interview with confidence but not arrogance. The company would not be interviewing you if you were not qualified. Typically there is very little separating you from the other candidates. Speaking with many HM’s, they like to see someone who shows motivation and a genuine interest in the position and the company. They do not want to feel like they are pulling answers from the candidate. The HM is looking for a person who they feel would be a good fit for their team and someone they see working alongside every day to successfully achieve their mission. Break a leg. Brian Bilski, is a retired Marine and senior military and Veteran recruiter for a global defense contractor and wants to answer your career transition questions. Submit your questions to LibertyLifeMedia.Com/Contact-Us.
9401 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Example vehicles: 2021 Kia Soul, 2021 Kia Forte, 2022 Kia Sportage, 2021 Kia Rio. 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed, with approved credit through KMF. Not all buyers will qualify. Example down payment 10%. Price is plus tax, tag, title, registration, any dealer-installed accessories, and a pre-delivery service fee of $999. Private Tag Agency Fee of $184, and Electronic Registration Filing Fee of $199, which charges represent costs and profits to the dealer for items such as inspecting, cleaning, and adjusting vehicles and preparing documents related to the sale. Pricing is inclusive of all applicable manufacturer incentives and may not be combined with other exclusive offers. See dealer for details. Expires 9/30/2021.
2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GLS
G206830N
$8,991
2016 FORD FIESTA SE
7793310A
2020 CHEVROLET SPARK LS
E389860A
$14,991 2019 INFINITI QX30 LUXE
G195065C
VISTA ROOF, SHOWROOM CONDITION
$25,991
2014 HYUNDAI SONATA SE
$10,291
G099635B
2018 KIA SOUL
7800772A
45K MILES
G210991A
2018 HONDA CIVIC LX
$15,991
2017 MAZDA MIATA GRAND TOURING
7935808A
$10,991
2013 KIA SORENTO SX
$26,991
G098343A
37K MILES
$19,991
2020 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 CUSTOM
G076192B
$40,791
$11,991 2016 LEXUS IS 200T
7988998B
LOADED, LOW MILES
$20,991
2017 JEEP WRANGLER RUBICON
G175655A
$40,991
904-694-3049 * W.A.C. Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for details. Plus tag, title, tax, and dealer fee. Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for full details.
LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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mercial eramic
DIRECTORY: RV Campgrounds
Now Go See It!
Start with The Liberty Coast
Baker County Island Oaks RV Resort: 9664 Nursery Rd Blvd, Glen St Mary, FL 32040. (904) 420-7822 Islandoaksrvresort.com. James E. Johnson Memorial RV Park: 5629 FL-16, Starke, FL 32091. 904-682-3104. Ocean Pond Campground: Osceola National Forest, County Road 250A, Sanderson, FL 32087. 386-752-2577, 850-523-8500. Fs.usda. gov/recarea/osceola/recreation/camping-cabins/ recarea/?recid=75104&actid=29. St. Mary’s Cove: 1909 Steel Bridge Rd, MacClenny, Florida 32063, 904-259-9980. Stmaryscove.com. Camden County Country Oaks RV Park & Campground: St. Mary’s Road, Kingsland, GA 31548. (912) 7296212. Countryoaksrv.com. Crooked River State Park: 6222 Charlie Smith Senior Hwy., St. Marys, GA 31558. 912-882-5256. Reservations: 800-864-7275. Gastateparks.org/CrookedRiver.
BUILD YOUR OWN DREAM This Business Model is Perfect for Veterans!
Everyone Has A Floor And They All Need Something That We Sell. With home construction and remodeling booming, now is a great time to make owning your own business a reality and Making Your Financial Dreams Come True! If you don’t build your own dream, someone else will hire you to help build theirs. After 46 years, it’s time to turn the dream over to a new dreamer. The business has an excellent reputation in the community and online and our client base includes residential, commercial and local military bases. We prescribe, sell & install carpet, luxury vinyl tile & plank, ceramic & porcelain tile, engineered wood, shutters and window coverings.
Contact Herb Mynatt at 904-571-4803 TheCarpetTree.Com • Facebook.com/TheCarpetTreeJaxFL 28 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
Clay County Camp Blanding: Ave A, Starke, FL 32091, (904) 682-3104. Militarycampgrounds.us/florida/campblanding-rv-park. Clay Fair RV Park: 2493 State Road 16 W, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. 904-284-1615. Claycountyfair.org. Magnolia Hill: 1517 Ball Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. (904) 529-8058.Claycountygov.com/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/206/351. Keystone Heights RV Resort: 1177 SE Keystone Ave., Keystone Heights FL 32656. 352-6454330. Keystoneheightsrv.com. Whiteys Fish Camp: 2032 County Rd 220, Fleming Park, FL 32003. 904-269-4198. Whiteysfishcamp.com. Duval County Camp Blanding Recreation Sites: Camp Blanding Recreational Department, 5629 SR 16 West, BLDG #1530, Starke, FL 32091. (904) 682-3104. MilitaryCampgrounds.us/florida/camp-blanding-rv-park. Flamingo Lake RV Resort: 3640 Newcomb Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218. (800) 782-4323. FlamingoLake.Com. Fleetwood RV Park: 5001 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32207. (904) 737-4733. FleetwoodRVPark.com. Hanna Park Campground: 2999 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32227. (904) 249-4700. Coj. net/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-and-community-programming/kathryn-abbey-hanna-park.aspx. Huguenot Memorial Park Campground: 10980 Heckscher Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32226. 904-2554255. Coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/ recreation-and-community-programming/huguenot-memorial-park--main.aspx. MWR RV Park: Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, FL. MWR RV Park, Bldg 1, Box 14, Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, FL 32212. (904) 542-5898. Militarycampgrounds.us/florida/jacksonville-rv-park.
Jacksonville Equestrian Center: RV Park. 13611 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL. 904-2554250. Jaxequestriancenter.com/rv-form/. Little Talbot State Park: 12157 Heckscher Drive., Jacksonville FL 32226. 904-251-2320. Floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/little-talbot-islandstate-park. Pecan Park RV Resort: 650 Pecan Park Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218. (904) 751-6770. pecanparkrvresort.com Riverfront RV Park & Marina: 8364 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226. (904) 251-3191. Riverfrontrvpark.com. Sunny Oaks RV Park: 8654 New Kings Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32219, (904) 619-6118, Sunnyoakscommunityrv.com. Nassau County Amelia River Campground: Fort Clinch State Park, 2601 Atlantic Ave.Fernandina Beach, FL 32034. 904-277-7274. Floridastateparks.org/ fortclinch/. Atlantic Beach Campground: Fort Clinch State Park 2601 Atlantic Ave.,Fernandina Beach, FL 32034. 904-277-7274.Floridastateparks.org/ fortclinch/. Bow & Arrow Campground 850430 US-17, Yulee, FL 32097. (904) 225-5577. Bowandarrowcampground.com. Cary Campground: Cary State Forest, 7465 Pavilion Rd., Bryceville, FL 32009. 904-266-8398. Fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/Cary-State-Forest. Fort Clinch State Park: 2601 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach FL 32034. 904-277-7274. FloridaStateParks.Org/Fortclinch. Horne Lake RV Park: 77219 Hance Parkway, Yulee, Florida, 32097. (904) 225-2080. Hornelakervresort.com Kelly’s Countryside RV Park: 36065 Kellys Ln, Callahan, FL 32011. (904) 845-4252, KellysCountrysideRVPark.Com. Lofton Creek Campground: 463516 E State Rd 200, Yulee, FL 32097. (904) 225-1990. loftoncreekcampground.com St Mary’s River Fish Camp: 29506 Scotts Landing Rd., Hilliard, FL 32046. 904-982-7788. Stmarysriverfishcamp.com. St. John’s County Anastasia State Park Florida State Park: 300 Anastasia Park Rd., St. Augustine, FL 32080. 904-461-2033. Reservations: 800-326-3521. Floridastateparks.org/anastasia. Compass RV Park:1505 St Rd. 207, St Augustine, FL 32086 . (904) 824-3574. compassrvresort.com North Beach Camp Resort: 4125 Coastal Hwy (SR A1A), St Augustine, FL 32084. (800) 5428316. Northbeachcamp.com. Stagecoach RV Park: 2711 County Road 208, St. Augustine FL 32092. 877-824-2319, Stagecoachrv.net. St Johns RV Park: 2493 State Road 207, St. Augustine, Florida 32086. 904-824-9840, Stjohnsrvpark.com. St Augustine Beach KOA Kampground Resort: 525 West Pope Road, St Augustine, FL 32080 (800) 562-4022.
Prepared by Sarah Pace - Sarah.Pace217@Gmail.Com
LOTUS OF JACKSONVILLE – WORLD IMPORTS USA Selling and Servicing Jacksonville‘s finest automobiles since 1986.
2018 ALFA ROMEO GIULIA LEATHER
2018 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO SPORT AWD 2017 AUDI A4 PREMIUM QUATTRO AWD
2016 AUDI A6 PREMIUM
2019 AUDI RS 5 QUATTRO
$24,999
$68,999
1987 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
2014 DODGE SRT VIPER GTS
2012 FORD F-150 4WD SVT RAPTOR
$19,900
$149,900
$45,998
$27,998
LEATHER
$33,999
LEATHER, SUNROOF
SUMMER OF AUDI EDITION, LEATHER, SUNROOF
1984 CHEVROLET CAMARO Z28 SPORT H.O.
2012 CHEVROLET CAMARO 2SS
$25,900
$26,998
COLLECTOR SERIES, T-TOPS
45TH ANNIVERSARY, LOW MILES
$28,999
COLLECTOR SERIES, LEATHER
COLLECTOR SERIES, LEATHER
LEATHER
LOW MILES
2003 FORD MUSTANG PREMIUM MACH 1
2007 FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500
2011 FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500
2012 FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500
2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD
$28,900
$43,999
$45,999
$52,999
$20,998
COLLECTOR SERIES, 9K MILES
COLLECTOR SERIES, LEATHER
COLLECTOR SERIES, LEATHER
RARE GLASS ROOF/RECAROS, 4K MILES
W/HARDTOP PREMIUM, LEATHER
2005 FORD THUNDERBIRD DELUXE
2017 GMC CANYON 4WD DENALI
2019 HONDA ODYSSEY TOURING
2018 HONDA PILOT ELITE AWD
2018 HYUNDAI SONATA LIMITED 2.0T
$18,999
$29,998
$38,998
$36,999
$20,999
2020 INFINITI Q50 3.0T SPORT
2015 INFINITI Q50
1991 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 90
1985 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 90
2020 LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER P250 SE
$35,999
$15,998
$59,999
2019 MASERATI LEVANTE 3.0L
$56,999
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LEATHER, SUNROOF
LEATHER
WE PROVIDE
LEATHER
LEATHER
LEATHER
LEATHER, SUNROOF
LEATHER
COLLECTOR SERIES, 5SPD
V8 KHAN EDITION, COLLECTOR SERIES, LEATHER
$67,999
$42,999
2019 NISSAN TITAN XD 4X4 DIESEL
1997 PANOZ ROADSTER AIV
2019 SUBARU WRX STI MANUAL
2017 VOLVO XC90 T6 AWD MOMENTUM
$48,998
$39,998
$33,999
$31,999
LEATHER
COLLECTOR SERIES, LEATHER
LOW MILES
EVOQUE, LEATHER
LEATHER, SUNROOF
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LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
|
29
The Liberty Coast
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay
SM
Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island (BIC)
Naval Station Mayport
Jacksonville Air National Guard Base
Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville
Naval Air Station Jacksonville
Cecil Air & Space Port Cecil Commerce Center
The Liberty Coast is home to one of the nation’s
largest communities of military Servicemembers, Veterans, DOD personnel, and their families. Serving on seven military installations and numerous commands in Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida that represent six branches of the U. S. military, this estimated population of 350,000 are living the Liberty Life across Camden, Nassau, Duval, Baker, Clay, Bradford and St. Johns County.
LIBERTYLIFEMEDIA.COM 30 | LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
Camp Blanding Joint Training Center
Florida National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters
LibertyLifeMedia.Com | FALL 2021 VOL. 2 / ISSUE 1
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31
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$6,988 2012 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE LS
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$5,988 2009 FORD EDGE LIMITED
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2013 CHEVROLET TAHOE LT 4WD
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