After almost three years in Jacksonville, Salvation Army Northeast Florida Area Commanders Majs. Dean and Pam Hinson will move to Atlanta for their next assignment. The Hinsons gathered Downtown with staff and friends Wednesday at the Salvation Army Community Center.
"It's never fun to say goodbye, but one of the great things is getting to see the people we've gotten to know over the past two years and eight months," said Maj. Dean Hinson.
Hinson said he's not really sure how many times he has moved to a new city with the Salvation Army. His parents also served and are now retired and came to Jacksonville from Tampa for the farewell celebration.
"I remember my parents would gather my brother and I and tell us it was time to move," Hinson said.
"We know when these men and women come here, they are going to move on. That's how an army works," said Tom Lee, chairman of the local Salvation Army advisory board.
"Major Hinson is a born teacher and leader and I have learned from Mrs. Hinson that there is strength in silence. We hope they will go with fond memories," said Tania Yount, director of development, speaking for the more than 120 members of the Salvation Army Northeast Florida staff.
"The last three years has gone by very quickly. It has been an honor and a pleasure to have worked with Pam," said Susie O'Quinn, Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary president.
Hinson said he and his wife will leave Jacksonville with fond memories of the work they have done and know the Salvation Army tradition that began in North Florida in 1891 — 13 years after the organization was founded in England — will continue.
"It is exciting to see God at work in the ministries and programs here. It has been a wonderful time. We look forward to hearing about great things taking place in Jacksonville," said Hinson.
The Salvation Army has a local annual budget of more than $10 million. It provides services in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties.
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