DADE CITY — About 300 soldiers and their families enjoyed dinner and entertainment Sept. 11 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds to thank and send their farewells to the G Company 53rd BSB FSC Field Artillery National Guard Unit from Dade City that soon ships out overseas.
Charley Belcher of Fox 13 was master of ceremonies of the event, which took place on the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite was among the dignitaries present, as were Pasco County Commission Chairman Jack Mariano and Dade City Mayor Scott Black.
“It is rather fitting that on 9/11 that we have this event,” Brown-Waite said. “We should never forget that there are terrorists out there who want to destroy our way of life. I can’t wait to welcome you home, each and every one of you.”
Unit Commander Travis L. Johnson made remarks considering the Sept. 11 attacks and the unit’s readiness. He presented plaques to the dinner’s host, The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, and to chamber member Missy Lee for her leadership in planning the salute to the soldiers.
