Local Black military members sound off on Veterans Day – Daytona Times

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Updated: November 14, 2025 @ 4:19 am

On Tuesday, Nov. 11, America celebrated Veterans Day which honors all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Veterans are proud Americans but often get lost in our society.
Veterans Day is special for veterans who take the time to reflect upon their service. On this day, they get the best treatment and acknowledgment for their sacrifice.
Locally, there were a few events and small gatherings in Ormond Beach, Port Orange and Ponce Inlet to celebrate Veterans Day.
Local Black vets talked about what they do on this special day, what the day means to them and how the military serves as an example on how to deal with the divisions in this country.
“I enjoy the free meals, but I also take the time to reflect upon my time in service as well to honor those who have also served in our military. Unfortunately, there are too many instances of veterans in bad situations in our country. Too many times, it seems like being a veteran in this country really doesn’t mean anything. Veterans Day is the one day that veterans are truly treated right and held in high esteem. As for all the divisions in our country today, when looking at the military we see the only aspect of our society that is close to truly being integrated, close to equality and close to fairness.”
“On Veterans Day I connect with other veterans and attend events honoring veterans. I remind myself that no matter the political climate or views of others I was part of something meaningful. The day honors and recognizes those for their courage, sacrifice and dedication in defending this country and preserving the freedoms Americans enjoy. Veterans Day also educates future generations by teaching young people about the importance of service, duty and appreciation for those who protect the nation.”
This year I spent Veterans Day with the family; we had breakfast, lunch and dinner out. It is important to honor and observe the service that we veterans gave in support of our fellow Americans. I take full advantage of all discounts and freebies. It’s a fair exchange. When looking at the divisions in our country I am saddened by it.
When I was on active duty, I didn’t just serve the Black Americans but All Americans. I gave good service. Those values stay with me in the midst of the division. I am hopeful that my fellow veterans feel the same.”
“On Veterans Day, I go and enjoy the free meals that are offered. I also attend a Veterans Day ceremony if I can. Veterans Day is a celebration of those who served in the military. It’s not easy serving. Some think it is. When you are serve, you put your life on the line in both war and combat. It’s an honor to be recognized. I see it as an appreciation of the service I contributed. With all
the division in our country we just need to look at the Armed Forces. It is a model of how our society and country should be. Even the racial divide isn’t really seen in the military. The nation only needs to look at its military to see how we can address our differences.”
“I go out and enjoy the free meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I also hang out with fellow veterans during these meals. On Veterans Day, we’re treated good. I also reflect upon my time in service. It is important to honor the men and women who put their lives on the line whether in war time or not. I wasn’t in a war, but I was in combat operations when we went to Panama to get Noriega. In the military you go to combat and war when you are called. The military has its racism, too, but when it’s time to fight or go to battle nobody sees color. Everyone comes together to get the job done.”
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