Capital Partners and First Coast Security Services held a memorial service Friday at Independent Square, recognizing the men and women who died in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“As we stand here today we are moved,” said veteran Chet Smith. “The men and women who give themselves selflessly touch our very souls.”
Smith also encouraged men and women who have not already done so to visit the Veterans Memorial Wall downtown.
“If you have not seen it, I don’t say ‘shame on you,’ but it is something that should be corrected.”
Following Smith’s address, sponsors of the service read aloud the names of the soldiers who “made the ultimate sacrifice.”
“So many men and women from the Jacksonville community were involved in this war,” said Betty Griffis of Capital Partners. “I believe that it is important that we recognize them and show our respects.”