WWII veteran joins decades-long tradition at Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres, Fla. The park, originally named Lehigh Community Park South when it opened in 1993, changed its name within the year to honor those who have served in the armed forces. This annual tribute has since become a vital part of the community’s identity.
Christine Garris, representing the local American Legion post, shared the pride felt for the town and its residents. “We love Lehigh Acres, and we cherish our connection to this community,” she expressed, voicing the sentiment that echoes among many. The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars chapters collaborate each year, shining a light on the sacrifices made by servicemen and women, both past and present.
This sense of camaraderie comes alive each Veterans Day as the gathered crowd raises the flag, recites the Pledge of Allegiance, and reflects on what service means to them. The strong sense of community is palpable, with over 800 veterans proudly holding membership in Lehigh’s American Legion, contributing to a rich tapestry of dedication and honor. In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that from 2018 to 2022, 5,113 veterans called Lehigh Acres home—an impressive statistic that showcases the area’s deep roots in military service.
“There’s a strong foundation here of veterans,” Garris noted, as the community strengthens its ties each year. For many, like Charles Appler, this park symbolizes more than just a gathering place; it represents a living history filled with personal stories of bravery and resilience.
80 YEARS LATER: WWII veteran takes part in decades-long tradition at Veterans Park
Charles Appler moved to Lehigh Acres in the 1980s. A Navy Medical Corpsman during World War II, he distills the essence of this strong foundation with his presence. During the Veterans Day service, he recounted vivid memories from his time in the Pacific. He painted a picture of a small island where he constructed a tent hospital, mending the wounds of soldiers while enemy aircraft flew overhead. The weight of those experiences, along with countless others like them, permeates the atmosphere of the service.
Following the ceremony, Ella Rhoades, the Community Correspondent for Lehigh Acres, probed Appler about the day’s significance. “Respect for our country and respect for others, and a peaceful world,” he reflected thoughtfully. His words resonate deeply in a world that oftentimes forgets the lessons of the past.
Certainly, after participating in this solemn tradition for over 25 years, Appler has cultivated a profound appreciation for public recognition. “I’m truly amazed at the young people who pass by in Publix or on the street, thanking me for my service. Their kindness warms my heart,” he said, highlighting a gentle shift in generational attitudes towards military service.
As Appler approaches his 100th birthday in January, his reflections serve as reminders of the ongoing relevance of his experiences. “This remembrance will continue into the future. While it was a war to end all wars, it was not,” he affirmed, suggesting that perhaps a bridge can be built between what has been and what might be learned. Appler’s wise words linger in the air, inviting others to ponder the world’s path forward.
The annual gathering at Veterans Park is not merely an event; it is a heartfelt commitment to remembering history, honoring sacrifices, and fostering connections in a community woven together by shared values. Such moments drive home an understanding: each hand raised in salute, each story told, shapes the community’s collective identity—a tapestry of respect, gratitude, and hope for a peaceful future.
