I am a U.S. Navy veteran with two honorable discharges. At the end of 2013 I decided to embark on a mission to find the veterans parks or memorials within my county (Broward), take pictures and see what can be done to improve them. The improvement might be cleanup, placing new memorials, and/or rebuilding the existing memorials for the new generation of veterans. My first accomplishment was an M-60 tank in the city of Oakland Park that was just rusting away. Well, 10 months later we cleaned and repainted the tank. I am working with the Town of Davie to redo their Veterans Park. Although I am an employee there, it does not make the process move any faster. I also am working on the City of Fort Lauderdale to become a Purple Heart City. They have accepted my proposal, and for Memorial Day the proclamation will be read aloud for the City of Fort Lauderdale to become a Purple Heart City. The icing on the cake is that I requested that the names of Purple Heart recipients be read aloud as well. I have contacted American Legion Post 36, which I just transferred to, and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 23 of South Florida, VFW Post 1966 and DAV members as well.
This comes just in time for the observance of March 30, 2015, decreed by the U.S. Senate to especially honor the Vietnam veteran. I will continue my quest to make sure that all the cities in Broward County either become a Purple Heart City or place a Purple Heart Trail within the city, and I will also work on the beautification of their existing parks. I can always use some guidance from anyone who wishes to assist. Thanks to all. I enclose a picture of my motorcycle, which is a tribute to POW/MIA and Vietnam veterans. I just finished a 9/11 bike as well.