Wreathes Across America at Hillside Cemetery, Ormond Beach, FL
MOAA Members Honor Veterans at Hillside Cemetery Ceremony
On December 13, 2025, members of the Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) proudly participated in a solemn remembrance ceremony held at Hillside Cemetery in Ormond Beach, Florida. The event drew more than 100 attendees from the local community who gathered to honor and reflect on the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.
Representing the Halifax Area Chapter were COL Bancroft McKittrick, USMC (Ret.), COL Skip Keating, USA (Ret.), and Lt Col Glenn Harmon, USAF (Ret.), who stood in tribute alongside fellow attendees. LTC Arnold Leeks, USA (Ret.), was also present in support of the ceremony and the chapter’s continued commitment to honoring those who served.
The Halifax Area Chapter remains dedicated to remembering our fallen heroes, supporting veteran-focused events, and maintaining a strong presence in our local community. Participation in ceremonies such as this reflects MOAA’s enduring mission to never forget the sacrifices made in defense of our nation.
ERAU Beach Ruck celebrating USMCs 250th
ERAU Celebrates the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University honored the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps through a series of community events in November 2025. In addition to the official on-campus ceremony, veteran students and supporters also organized a 4-mile ruck march along the beach in Daytona Beach on November 8th, bringing Marines, veterans, and community members together in a show of endurance, camaraderie, and pride.
Among those in attendance on the 4-mile ruck was COL Bancroft McKittrick, USMC (Ret.), representing the Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). His presence underscored the strong ties between ERAU and the veteran and military communities of Volusia and Flagler counties.
The formal USMC Birthday Ceremony took place on November 14, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:30 PM in the College of Business Atrium at ERAU. The event welcomed veteran students, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests from the local community.
Together, these events honored generations of Marines—past, present, and future—celebrating their enduring legacy of honor, courage, and commitment. Celebrates the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday
Celebrating the Year of the SERGEANT
Volusia County Veterans Memorial Plaza – November 11 2025
This year’s Veterans Day ceremony at the Volusia County Veterans Memorial Plaza in Daytona Beach marked 2025 as the official “Year of the Sergeant.” Sponsored by the Military Officers Association of America, Halifax Area Chapter (MOAA), the Veterans Council of Volusia County (VCVC), the Vietnam Veterans Association and the Sergeants & Corporals organizations, the event honoured all veterans — with a special focus on those who served during the Vietnam era.
Despite a cold and windy day, a large and dedicated crowd gathered to pay tribute, listen to meaningful remarks, and reflect on the legacy of our non-commissioned officers. The ceremony brought together military, veteran, and community members in united respect and remembrance.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the VCVC’s Sergeant/Leadership Award for 2025 to one of our own: CWO3 Pierre Louis, USMC (Ret.). His leadership, service, and ongoing commitment to our community exemplify the values we seek to honour.
Members may recall that the local media coverage — including an article in the *Observer Local News of Ormond Beach — captured many of the ceremony’s key moments and underscored the strong turnout and community engagement.
The Halifax Area Chapter of MOAA is proud to stand alongside our partner organizations, and to continue our mission of “Never Stop Serving.”
Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy ⚾️🇺🇸
Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy Community Outreach – November 8, 2025
On November 8, 2025, the Halifax Area Chapter MOAA proudly supported the Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy during their baseball tournament weekend in New Smyrna Beach. The Academy provides wounded, injured, and ill veterans with training, camaraderie, and renewed confidence through the art of umpiring.
HAC member Anita Williams and Don Sebes volunteered on Saturday morning to deliver and distribute drinks to help keep the umpires hydrated throughout the long day of games. In addition, Anita Williams and Arnold Leeks donated water, sports drinks, and snacks to further support the participants and ensure their comfort on the field.
This outreach reflects our chapter’s ongoing commitment to stand beside our fellow veterans—supporting them not only in recognition, but in action.
Never Stop Serving. ⚾🇺🇸
November’s Coffee and Doughnuts 🍩☕️
Coffee & Doughnuts at the Daytona Beach VA Clinic – November 6, 2025
The Halifax Area Chapter MOAA hosted a Coffee & Doughnuts outreach event at the William V. Chappell Jr. VA Clinic in Daytona Beach on November 6, 2025. Chapter members John and Patti Higgins, Anita Williams, Don Sebes, Arnold Leeks, John Ives, and Sharon Miller welcomed veterans with coffee, doughnuts, and conversation throughout the morning.
This simple act of fellowship continues to strengthen our connection with local veterans and demonstrates our chapter’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who have served.
Never Stop Serving. 🇺🇸
Veteran’s Memorial Plaza – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Veterans Memorial Ribbon Cutting – September 19, 2025 (Daytona Beach)
On September 19, 2025, members of the Halifax Area Chapter MOAA attended the Veterans Memorial Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Daytona Beach, marking the official dedication of the restored memorial space. The ceremony brought together veterans, community members, and local leaders in a shared moment of honor and reflection.
A special highlight of the event was the dedication of the Memorial Chair, made possible by a $4,000 combined donation from four generous individuals. Their contribution helped create a lasting symbol of remembrance for those who served and sacrificed.
The memorial continues to grow through community support, and ongoing donations are welcomed to ensure its upkeep and future enhancements.
Together, we remember. Together, we honor. 🇺🇸
Bagels, Bingo, and Camaraderie: MOAA Brings Smiles to Emory L. Bennett Memorial Veterans
July 7, 2025
On Monday, July 7, the Halifax Area Chapter of MOAA hosted another heartwarming “Bagels and Bingo” morning at the Emory L. Bennett Veterans Nursing Home in Daytona Beach, Florida. The event brought together 14 resident veterans for a time of fellowship, fun, and a few friendly rounds of bingo.
Veterans were treated to a delicious breakfast spread that included hot coffee, hot chocolate, tea, apple juice, orange juice, and a special treat—cinnamon bagels served with butter and cream cheese, which were a clear favorite among the group.
MOAA volunteers in attendance included Skip Keating, Sharon Miller, Glen Harmon, Drew Hoffman, and Mary Lou Hoffman. Their efforts were generously supported by members of the Daughters of the American Revolution and VITAS Hospice, led by Tina Ford, with a team of four volunteers.
Bingo winners were rewarded with $5 Walmart gift cards—tokens that many of the veterans joyfully were used to purchase gifts for their grandchildren or personal treats. Those who won multiple games were surprised with a special beanbag gift provided by the VITAS team, adding an extra touch of comfort and appreciation.
The morning concluded with a heartfelt group sing-along of “God Bless America,” a fitting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those in attendance.
The Halifax Area Chapter is proud to continue this monthly tradition and remains committed to bringing joy and gratitude to our veteran community.
As always—Never Stop Serving.
Halifax Area Chapter 4th of July 🇺🇸
July 4, 2025
🇺🇸 Halifax Area Chapter – MOAA 🇺🇸
Celebrating Our Nation’s 249th Birthday!
🎆 4th of July Parade – Daytona Beach 🎆
Friday Morning | July 4th, 2025
The Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) proudly participated in the Daytona Beach 4th of July Parade to honor our nation’s 249th birthday.
🚗 Four decorated vehicles filled with our amazing MOAA members
🎖️ Special guests from VITAS Healthcare
🎈 American flags shared with children along the route
❤️ A chance to showcase our commitment to country, community, and service
We were honored to represent MOAA and share our mission with the citizens of Volusia County—supporting veterans, their families, and our greater military community.
MOAA – Never Stop Serving
Ormond Beach Observer: Halifax Area Chapter of the MOAA honors Halifax Health Hospice, Team RWB
The Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America held its fourth annual Outstanding Support to Veterans award luncheon at the Halifax River Yacht Club on Thursday, May 22.
This year’s awards were presented to Halifax Health Hospice and Team Red, White and Blue Daytona Chapter.
According to a press release, the award is presented annually to a local company or organization the chapter recognizes as making the most significant contribution to veterans and their families. These can include providing services to improve the health, morale and welfare of service members and their family, or providing military forces with new or improved systems that improve military capability.Halifax Health Hospice provides job opportunities for veterans, and has a Veteran Advisory Committee, which meets monthly with the chapter’s Hospice Veteran Committee. Halifax Health Hospice also organizes a campaign to collect and deliver care packages to active-duty military personnel and veteran and hosts commemorative ceremonies.
Team RWB, a nonprofit, was founded by veterans and hosts events for veterans including runs, walks, rucks, dance, pickleball, yoga, Pilates, bike rides, book club, kayaking, CrossFit, coffee socials and meals. Team RWB Eagles shop for veterans in the Emory Bennet Veterans Nursing Home, host a Christmas party and sponsors veterans in Veterans Court.
Florida Council of Chapters (FCOC) Leadership Training Seminar (LTS) 2025
The purpose of the Florida Council of Chapters (FCOC) Leadership Training Seminar (LTS) 2025 was to give chapter leaders networking opportunities, training, and resources. Enhancing leadership abilities, boosting chapter operations, and encouraging cooperation throughout the state are the main objectives of this conference.
In addition, we learned, Leadership Development: Workshops and participated in seminars designed to give chapter leaders practical tactics for member engagement, communication, and governance. Instruction on Using MOAA’s Legislative Action Center and Getting Ready for Advocacy in Action 2025 Campaigns: Legislative Advocacy Training.
Opportunities for Networking: Exchanges of best practices and the development of a more robust statewide network among FCOC officials, chapter presidents, and legislative chairs.
Operational Excellence: Instruction on how to use resources like social media, financial reporting, and membership management systems for engagement and outreach.
Source: www.flmoaa.org, ChatGPT
Halifax Area Chapter 2024 Christmas Party & Silent Auction
Christmas Holiday Gala– What a wonderful gathering we had to celebrate the holiday season with friends and colleagues. 1st Vice President, Anita Williams, did an exceptional job chairing this year’s silent auction committee. She was able to get 21 items donated for our auction from enthusiastic local businesses and interested party contributors that provided our chapter a grand total of $2055 in donations. 100% of the donations were in turn, added to the Halifax Area Chapter-MOAA scholarship funds.
There was a question as to whether to have a silent auction at the next gala which is still in talks. What are your thoughts about the auction? Would you support another silent auction function for next year’s event? Please let us know through the voting button below and leave a suggestion to help improve our potential to support HAC-MOAA causes.
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Halifax Area Chapter MOAA 
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