Coastal Breeze News

When the dream began a small group of military veterans, most of them old soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen, the “Greatest Generation” from World War II, sought to have a fitting memorial at Veterans Park. On November 11, 2011, the dream becomes reality. The Memorial is located near the water and is in a beautiful, tranquil place for resting and contemplation. Members of Marco Island’s Chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Civil Air Patrol, Coast Guard Auxiliary and many patriotic residents of Marco Island made the Memorial possible by contributions, and by participating in the planning of Veterans ... Read More »

Beginning this week, TECO gas will be installing a 6 inch natural gas line onto the island under the Marco River. This installation will be similar to our recent subaqueous installation of the 24” raw water main. The boring pit will be located on the Marco side of the old Jolley Bridge in the area now know as the gravel parking lot. This parking lot and the right turn lane into the lot will be closed for approximately two weeks beginning on Thursday, November 10th. This schedule may be modified depending on the delivery of pipe material and construction equipment. ... Read More »

By Melissa Mayo Williams My father, Joseph “Coach” Mayo was part of The Greatest Generation. He was a wounded war hero who earned three Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star for his service with the 10th Mountain Division of the United States Army. Did I know this growing up? No, I did not. I was a young adult when a friend visiting our home noticed my dad’s medals on his desk. He was a Naval officer, knowledgeable about military honors. “The Bronze Star is big, you know that?” I tucked that fact away to think about later. We always celebrated ... Read More »

By Natalie Strom  They are a softball team like you’ve never seen. Nearly twenty veterans of the post-9/11 era have come together to form WWAST; the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team. As their name suggests, everyone on the team was injured in the line of duty and wears a prosthesis of some sort. Their mission: “to raise awareness, through exhibition and celebrity softball games, of the sacrifices and resilience of our military, and highlight their ability to rise above any challenge.” And they are coming to Marco Island. This remarkable team, that has been featured on HBO, ESPN, CBS Evening ... Read More »

The Marco Island Center for the Arts is proud to announce that Tuskegee artist and historian, Mr. Clint Martin, and Tuskegee pilot, Lt Col. Leo R. Gray, USAF Ret., will be a focal point for the gallery opening of Salute To Service: America at War, on November 8, 5:30PM-7:30PM. It is free and open to the public; donations are welcomed. The exhibition will be open through the month of November; it blends war memorabilia and original paintings, both from local veterans, their families and local artists. Elaine Michaelis of Marco Island has led the gallery committee on collecting memorabilia from ... Read More »

Marco Polo restaurant has a special way to pay tribute, free dinner! For the last few years, Marco Polo has opened their doors and provided free dinner to veterans on Veterans Day. The selected entrée this year, especially prepared by the culinary team, a delectable Surf and Turf combination featuring Baked Stuffed Shrimp and Chateaubriand. Tom Naifeh, who has been with Marco Polo since it opened, said, “My father was a tail-gunner. That’s led to a special appreciation for veteran’s contributions. I grew up understanding the importance of veterans. Fortunately, we’re in a position we can do this. We can ... Read More »

1st Place: By Josie Torres TBE 5th Grade Period 3 Laudise “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country!” is what Nathan Hale said over 200 years ago. He expressed these powerful words when the British were about to hang him. His words demonstrate his love for our country. He obviously died a patriot and demonstrated what I think patriotism is. Patriotism means love and loyalty to our country. I have a deep love for my country and my freedom. I am very fortunate that I get to live in a country with rights ... Read More »

THE HOOCH By Lance Corporal Michael P. Prikril Dang Ha, Vietnam June 10, 1969 We sit in a circle At the end of each day It sure was a hot one That’s what we always say We scrounge up some soda Hoping it’s cold Then talk of our past The same story told Of Mom and of Sis Standing on the porch And always of girlfriends Carrying the torch This is our joy Simple it may be If you can’t understand it It’s because you’re not we   “THE SILVER GHOST, REDEEMED” By Sergeant George W. Henley Fighter Pilot Corsair ... Read More »