YMCA of South Florida Hosts 11th Annual Veterans Day Salute Featuring Navy SEAL Robert O'Neill

The YMCA of South Florida, in partnership with the City of Weston, will honor former and current military members during its 11th annual Veterans Day Salute, presented by Milner Technologies, on Friday, November 7 from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Bonaventure Town Center Club, 16690 Saddle Club Road in Weston. This year's keynote speaker is Robert O'Neill, a legendary Navy SEAL and decorated combat veteran who served for eight years on SEAL Team Six, where he led and participated in more than 400 missions around the world.

O'Neill's heroic contributions include rescuing Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates as depicted in the movie Captain Phillips starring Tom Hanks, aiding in the mission to save Lone Survivor Marcus Luttrell and leading the team that brought down Osama bin Laden. O'Neill has been awarded 53 military decorations, including two Silver Stars and four Bronze Stars with Valor. YMCA of South Florida President and CEO Sheryl A. Woods emphasized the significance of the event, stating that celebrating Veterans Day every year is very special and they are honored to host this heartwarming salute to all military personnel and their families.

More than 500 community leaders and veterans are expected to attend the Y's annual Veterans Day breakfast, with all veterans in attendance receiving a special gift that includes a challenge coin and additional items. According to data from the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, nearly 10% of the nation's 19.1 million veterans live in Florida, making it the third largest veteran population in the nation. The Y's military connections in South Florida date back to World War I, and over the last six years, the YMCA of South Florida has provided more than $860,000 in financial assistance to military members.

Through the Y's military membership program detailed at https://ymcasouthflorida.org, families can spend quality time together, meet other military families and enjoy membership offerings in a supportive environment. Military benefits include opportunities for paid employment and as volunteers, facility usage for training purposes, health and wellness seminars and cross promotions of shared resources. The event represents the YMCA's ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and military families through comprehensive programs and community engagement initiatives that recognize their service and sacrifice.