The City of Jacksonville, in partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation, has announced the kickoff of their annual "Celebration of Valor." This series of events, as shared on the City of Jacksonville's official website, is dedicated to honoring veterans through various activities and ceremonies leading up to a final remembrance on December 13 with Wreaths Across America and an Army Navy Watch Party.
According to Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, "Here in Jacksonville, our commitment to our veterans and military families goes far beyond Veterans Day," and added that the celebration is a reflection of the "deep respect and appreciation our community holds for the men and women who wear the uniform, and for their families who stand beside them." The celebration not only features events but also includes community grants awarded to various organizations benefiting active-duty military members and veterans, a gesture that signifies the city’s commitment to these individuals, as per the City of Jacksonville's official website.
The 2025 Jaguars Community Grants, announced earlier today, will provide funding to several organizations such as Five STAR Veterans Center, Operation New Uniform, and Guitars for Vets. In total, the grants were awarded to twelve deserving organizations that serve the local veteran and military community, each working towards the betterment and support of these heroes and their families.
Additionally, grants from the Veterans Council of Duval County were also announced, lending support to organizations such as Women Veterans Ignited and the We Can Be Heroes Foundation. This kind of support represents the city's effort to uphold the respect and provide tangible assistance for those who put their lives on the line, as reported by the City of Jacksonville's official website. The Jaguars Foundation, since 2012, has given back approximately $38.1 million to the local community, funding causes that span from neighborhood revitalization to youth development.
