© 2026 WFSU Public Media
WFSU News · Tallahassee · Panama City · Thomasville
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Tallahassee's veterans start their day with a hearty breakfast, courtesy of Leon County

U.S. Navy Vet Thandi Williams served with the Army's famed 101st Airborne Division during the conflict in Afghanistan,
Tom Flanigan
U.S. Navy Vet Thandi Williams served with the Army's famed 101st Airborne Division during the conflict in Afghanistan,

Before Tallahassee's Veterans Day parade, hundreds of local vets gathered for a free breakfast at the Lake Ella American Legion Post, hosted by Leon County government.

Among those at the Fourteenth Annual Operation Thank You was Navy veteran Thandi Williams.

"Women have served in the military. Men have served for years. And this is a small recognition for what we've done.

Eric Smith continues to serve as a member of the Big Bend Honor Guard.

"I don't mind volunteering and doing this because one day someone's going to have to do this for me."

Outgoing Leon County Commission Chair Christian Caban says the Veteran's Day breakfast is one of his favorite activities.

"We're so thankful we get to do this event and honor those who've spent a lifetime honoring the United States."

Music played by an actual fife and drum unit accompanied the vets as they departed the Sauls Bridges American Legion Post 13 to take part in the Veterans Day Parade.
Tom Flanigan
Music played by an actual fife and drum unit accompanied the vets as they departed the Sauls Bridges American Legion Post 13 to take part in the Veterans Day Parade.

As part of this year’s celebration, the County presented two Veterans Day proclamations honoring Specialist Joseph West, U.S. Army, and retired Master Sgt. Raymond Miller, U.S. Marine Corps.

Follow @flanigan_tom

Tom Flanigan has been with WFSU News since 2006, focusing on covering local personalities, issues, and organizations. He began his broadcast career more than 30 years before that and covered news for several radio stations in Florida, Texas, and his home state of Maryland.

Find complete bio, contact info, and more stories. here.