Delegates Commemorate D-Day and the Battle of Midway

Key  West,  FL  –  June 8th marks the 76th years of remembrance of D-Day, also known as Operation  Overlord  which  was  launched  on  this  day  in  1944.  It  also  coincides with the remembrance of the Battle of Midway which occurred from 4-7 June 1942 and is celebrated as the decisive turning point for the war in the Pacific theater. These two historic events resulted  in  4,414  deaths  in  the  Atlantic  and  the  loss  of  307  sailors,  145 aircraft, and 2 aircraft   carriers   in   the   Pacific.   Although   these   were   great   losses,   these   days   are remembered for the remarkable heroism that ultimately contributed to total victory.

On  Saturday,  the  residents of Key West did not find the usual commemoration typically hosted by the US Navy in Mallory Square due to the Department of Defense restrictions that prevented them from participating. Rick Haskin notes “the Navy has a very significant legacy in Key West. It is important to make sure days like today are not forgotten.” In order to ensure that this day was properly remembered, a small ceremony was hosted digitally.

Aboard the USCGC Ingham, a small delegation gathered to speak about the importance of D-Day and Midway and reflect on their experiences in the Navy. In attendance was: former Fleet Master Chief Ralph Charres – served aboard the USS INTREPID, USS ENTERPRISE and USS NIMITZ from 1968 – 1985; Aircraft avionics specialist, FAA service certified, and civilian contractor at Boca Chica, Rick  Haskins – former US Navy Seabee and  2020  Key  West  Mayoral  Candidate;  Captain  Bill  Grosscup  –  fleet  Admiral  and Second  Sea  Lord,  Conch  Republic  Navy,  Retired  Lt.  Colonel,  USMC  and  docent  on  the USCGC  INGHAM  Maritime  Museum;  Billy  Wardlow  –  Key  West  City  Commissioner, District 3. James Gilleran – City Of Key West Planning Board Member, Secretary Of State Of The Conch Republic; Admiral Finbar Gittelman, First Sea Lord of the Keys’ spirited Conch Republic and Supreme Commander of Conch Republic Military Forces.

These  messages  of  perseverance  and  spirit  rang  true  with  relevance  in  the  light  of  the difficult circumstances that Covid-19 has produced. Captain Bill placed particular emphasis on how Key West Conchs can help the situation by saying “we know that you’re caring by the mask that you’re wearing.” After briefly speaking, the ceremonial call to arms was led by   Captain   Bill,   while   Commissioner   Wardlow   and   Rick   Haskins   dispatched   the commemorative wreath over the side of the ship.

The police patrol boat helped the delegates pull the wreath from the water where it was posted at the Florida Keys Historical Military Memorial for all to enjoy in Mallory Square. The  biodegradable  wreath  was  generously  provided by Gourmet Nibbles and Flowers on Francis  and  Truman.  Owner  of  the  flower  shop,  former  US  Marine  Gunnery-Sergeant Ronnie  Rupe  is  so  thankful  to  his  military  patrons  that he gladly offers a 20% military discount. Additionally, The USCGC Ingham should be graciously and abundantly thanked for  their  participation  and  willingness  to  be  included  in  this  remembrance.  It  is  of  the utmost importance to support institutions, such as the USCGC Ingham Historical Museum, in order to preserve our history and serve to remind us of our mistakes so we will not be doomed to repeat them.

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