JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Standing in the atrium of City Hall, Mayor Alvin Brown said, "Today, I am proud to announce the City of Jacksonville's 2012 Week of Valor, a celebration of service and sacrifice."
Mayor Brown believes Jacksonville's veterans deserve more than just a day of recognition. They deserve a whole week. So this year, for the very first time, November 5 through November 12 will be called the "Week of Valor."
Rear Admiral Jack Scorby, Commander of Navy Region Southeast, said, "The City of Jacksonville has public ally declared itself as the most military-friendly city in the nation."
The "Week of Valor" includes two major events which will put Jacksonville in the national spotlight.
On November 8 the Jaguars host the Indianapolis Colts. Macky Weaver, Jaguars Senior Vice President, said, "The NFL has a military appreciation week around the league. I don't think it was any coincidence that they picked Jacksonville, Florida, and the Jacksonville Jaguars to kick off their salute to service."
Then on November 9, the Navy-Marine Corps Basketball Classic will be held on board the USS Bataan off Mayport. The game between the University of Florida and Georgetown University will kick off the NCAA basketball season.
Both events will be nationally televised.
"People will recognize us," said Mayor Brown. "And again, continue to identify the City as a leader and as a destination for sports events and activities."
Jacksonville is home to 240,000 veterans and active duty military. Mayor Brown says there are heroes all around us. And this "Week of Valor" is designed to thank them. "The Week of Valor is a serious week that we take seriously. As Mayor, I'm going to do everything I can to make sure we honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice."
Mayor Brown calls the week a "party with a purpose." Money made during that week will go to the City's Department of Military Affairs, which helps vets find jobs and helps keep them off the streets.
Visit the
website of the city's Department of Military Affairs for a complete calendar of events.
