Former Merchant Marine Ross Rowlinson helped spearhead the dedication of a new monument honoring the World War II-era merchants on the Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary next to Riverside Park in Vero Beach on May 22.
In addition to the monument dedication, Floyd York, 100, will be given his World War II Merchant Marine Veterans Congressional Gold Medal.
Rowlinson invited Cadets from Sebastian River High School to participate in the ceremony, in which they solemnly marched to the monument and placed a decorative wreath to the tune of “Amazing Grace” played by local bagpiper Michael E. Hyde.
Cadets had the opportunity to learn about the Merchant Marine and the role they play in our nation’s national defense strategy.
“There’s a lot of people that just don’t know what the Merchant Marine is, and it’s important to know its different roles in wartime and in peacetime,” Rowlinson said. “It really makes the world go round. We deliver the goods as they say.”
SRHS Navy JROTC Cadets enjoyed meeting service members from previous generations who have given of themselves in service to their county, recognizing kindred spirits in their desire to serve a greater cause.
“It was cool to learn about the purpose of the Merchant Marine,” said Cadet Lieutenant Trevor Johnston. “I really enjoyed Mr. McCaffery’s speech about the history of the Merchant Marines and how they contributed to national defense.”
“I liked that we were able to play such an important role in honoring the Merchant Marine veterans,” said Cadet Lieutenant Commander Ava Anderson.
“It was humbling to be a part of expressing appreciation for their service,” she continued.
To learn more about SRHS Navy JROTC unit, or to partner with the unit for events and volunteer activities, contact CDR Peter Bissonnette by email at snsi@srhs.us, by phone at 772-564-4413, or by visiting the unit website, njrotc.srhs.us.
