In a heartfelt ceremony marking the 70th Veterans Day, city officials and community members gathered in Deltona, Florida, to honor the sacrifices of veterans. City Manager Doc Dougherty opened the event, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of those who have served in the military. He highlighted the importance of Veterans Day as a time to remember the freedoms protected by veterans and acknowledged the Altona American Legion Post 255 for its leadership in supporting veterans.

Dougherty, a proud veteran himself, shared a personal connection to the military, noting that he and his wife are parents to four Army officers, three of whom attended West Point. His remarks emphasized the ongoing significance of the American dream and the role veterans play in safeguarding it. \"Let Veterans Day be a reminder that we must live out the rights of freedom that veterans sacrificed with their minds and bodies to protect,\" he stated.

The ceremony also recognized local dignitaries, including County Commissioner David Santiago and Mayor Santiago Avila, who joined in honoring the veterans present. The event concluded with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the national anthem, reinforcing the community's commitment to remembering and appreciating the sacrifices made by those who served.