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NEXT MEETING IS JANUARY 29TH

We had a successful November/December run with all the Veteran activities of November, the Birthday Ball and Toys for Tots. We will meet in January and ask everyone to consider nominees for elected positions for 2009.  Those elections will be in February.  

BIRTHDAY BALL A SUCCESS                CLICK HERE TO SEE BALL PHOTOS

With an estimated 130 guests in attendance, the 2008 Gator Detachment Birthday Ball was an enjoyable evening.  After the initial social hour, a traditional Marine birthday ceremony was performed.  Guests were then treated to a fine buffet and birthday cake while the free keg of beer and the cash bar provided refreshments.  We had presentations by Young Marine PFC Hull and Young Marine Sergeant Collins, documenting their experiences in the program.  Young Marine Sergeant Major Kayle Hill provided an excellent account of the experiences during her career in the program, and she recognized a number of Marines, family and friends that have helped her along the way.  Entertainer Mark Copeland kept the crowd hopping for about two and half hours.  When we get photos, they will be posted on the 2008 Birthday Ball page.  Already looking forward to next year ...!

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Now over 206,000 Marines have accounts!!  Semper Fi.
Recommended by Scott DuPree.

GATORDET SERVES BREAKFAST EVERY MONTH

Because we have a solid partnership with VFW Post 2811, one of our ways of helping them is to serve breakfast the LAST Saturday of every month.  Our volunteers man the galley and fix up breakfast for all who come.  If you have skills that might help, contact Commandant Cary Hill and ask him how you can help.  Otherwise, come down on Saturdays for a great breakfast for just $4.00.

Marine Cecil Adkins - Taps, October 25, 2008

Longtime Gator Detachment member Cecil Adkins passed away in his sleep on Saturday, October 25, 2008.  Cecil was a detachment member that stepped up with financial help when we needed it and with rolled up sleeves when he was able.  He actively supported the events of this detachment, as well as the SgtMaj Thomas H. Griggs Jr. Detachment in the Lake City area where he was a dual member.  Our thoughts and prayers go to his daughter, Cassie, who has been his faithful caretaker for many years.  It is reported that he will be cremated and interred in the National Cemetary in Bushnell with his wife at some time in the near future.

Marine Jim Yakbusin honored as Alachua County's VETERAN OF THE YEAR

On Saturday, January 26, Jim Yakbusin, co-founder of the Gator Detachment, was recognized at the annual Veteran Awards Banquet for his work with the Military Support Group of Alachua County.  Jim started the support group four years ago to support troops from our local area that are serving in the middle east.  Starting with just a few names, the group has grown to where they now hold two meetings per month, shipping over 200 care packages each month.  Jim has been very active with the media and the community, keeping the focus on our troops and the positive stories coming first-hand back from Iraq and Afghanistan.  The support group has also proven to be a very meaningful activity for the loved ones here, giving them a tangible way to help and stay in touch with each other here as well, sharing news, good and bad, from over there. Yakubsin, a retired Master Sergeant, has three sons (all have worn the Marine uniform).  His wife, LINDA, is to be commended as she supports and helps Jim with all of his endeavors.  (Never underestimate a Marine wife.).  Congratulations, Jim.  Job Well Done.

GatorDet Marine Receives Honor from the NHRA

Marine Veteran Norm Froscher, who serves as GatorDet's Public Affairs Officer, was inducted into National Hot Rod Association's Southeast Division 2 Hall of Fame.  The recognition honors his motor sports writing career.

Norm has been the GatorDet PAO from the time we were chartered.  As a matter of fact, he is the only charter officer still serving in his original assignment.  But I think you'll agree that he has a knack for public affairs.

The presentation was made in Orlando on January 5th.  To read more about this, click here to see the full story.

COMING UP ...

NOVEMBER GENERAL MEETING has been moved due to the Thanksgiving Holiday.  The detachment will meet one week later, on DECEMBER 4TH.  It will still be at the VFW at 7pm on the first Thursday in December.   There is no General Meeting at the end of December.