CFK invites community to “A 250-Year Salute to American Heroes”

CFK leaders gather under the American flag at the College’s Upper Keys Center. L to R: CFK Board of Trustees Vice Chair Peter Batty, Chair Alexandra Suarez, Trustee Michael Downer, Trustee Dan Leben, President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, and Trustee Eddie Kertis.

KEY WEST, FL, April 29, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) will honor the lives and legacy of fallen heroes, veterans, and active-duty military service members and their families with a ceremony on Thursday, May 21 at 1 p.m. on the Key West Campus. The community is invited to attend the free event, “A 250-Year Salute to American Heroes,” held in observance of National Military Appreciation Month and Memorial Day.

The ceremony will open with an invocation by U.S. Army veteran, former chaplain, and CFK Marine Engineering instructor Ed Coy. CFK President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra will present his Memorial Day Salute, an annual tradition that recognizes a late veteran and member of the CFK Family. High school students from the CFK Academy will perform the national anthem. College leaders will also raise an American flag that was flown over the Capitol in Washington D.C. in honor of CFK’s 60th Anniversary. 
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“As we reflect on 250 years of our nation, we are proud to come together as a College community to pay tribute to the countless heroes to whom we owe our freedom,” said Gueverra. “As parents of a naval service member, we know firsthand of the sacrifices and commitment our military, veterans, and their families endure to protect our country, and we are deeply appreciative of their continued contributions to strengthen and enrich our community.”