McKnight Highlights Rally To Support Troops
By Space Coast Daily // May 1, 2012
Taking pride
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – Retired U.S. Army Col. Danny McKnight, made famous in the book and film “Black Hawk Down” will be the featured speaker at the 10th annual Support Our Troops Rally to be held from 1 to 3 p.m. May 12 at Veterans Park in Palm Bay.
The event will play host to representatives from all U.S. military branches and will include a “missing man” flyover conducted by pilots with the Valiant Air Command.
“This event is our way of letting all our men and women in uniform know that we continue to support them and we thank them for their loyal and dedicated service to our country,” said Donna Brooks, former Palm Bay councilmember and one of the organizers of the event. “It’s an opportunity for the public to see and hear from those who serve and have served in an inspiring presentation of speeches, music and celebration of our armed forces.”
The featured speaker, Col. McKnight, is a Distinguished Military Graduate from Florida State University in 1973, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in management.
In 1985 he earned a master’s degree in higher education from the University of Florida while assigned as an assistant professor of military science in the ROTC department. Col. McKnight’s military career included combat duty on two occasions – Panama in 1989 and Somalia in 1993, the latter being the basis for the book and film “Black Hawk Down.”
Col. McKnight shares his experience with others through his presentation that provides a better understanding of the unparalleled commitment and leadership required to be successful when executing operations in the most difficult and most severe situations. He also speaks of patriotism and devotion to one’s country.
“He is an inspiration to all of us and we are extremely proud to have him as our featured guest for the 10th anniversary of our event,” Brooks said. “What a tribute this will be for our troops and what an inspiration for all those who attend.”
In addition to Col. McKnight’s presentation, the 10th anniversary event of the Support Our Troops Rally will feature patriotic music by local performers, military demonstrations and flyover, massing of the colors and K-9 demonstrations.
Food and beverages will be available.
American flags will be given to all in attendance and banners will be available for the public to write messages to the troops. The banners will be delivered to the men and women currently deployed.
The event is free and open to the public.
For more information call 321-952-3443.
Veterans Memorial Park is 2200 Port Malabar Blvd. in Palm Bay.
