Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber Honors Vietnam Veterans
FORT WALTON BEACH, FL – (April 8, 2025) – The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce paid tribute to local Vietnam Veterans at their April First Friday Coffee, sponsored by thrIVe Wellness, marking the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam Conflict. The emotional gathering highlighted five distinguished local veterans — Ed Hubbard, Howard Hill, Dick Rynearson, John Wambough, and Tom Moody—who were recognized for their exemplary service and dedication to the community.
“When we decided to honor our local Vietnam Veterans on this significant anniversary, I reached out to veterans within our community to understand how best to honor their fellow service members,” said Ted Corcoran, President/CEO of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber. “Col. Ed Hubbard and Howard Hill were POWs, honored two years ago on the 50th Anniversary of their release. Dick Rynearson has served our community for 16 years through his roles on City Council and as Mayor; John Wambough is a long-time chamber member; and I’ve known Tom Moody for 30 years, dating back to when he and his wife Carol owned a Destin fishing charter. These five pilots perfectly represent the spirit and bravery of the Vietnam Veterans living here in Northwest Florida.”
The Chamber chose renowned aviation artist John Mollison of oldguysandtheirairplanes.com to create personalized paintings depicting each veteran and the aircraft they flew during service. Community members are invited to sign these commemorative paintings displayed at five local businesses: Eglin Federal Credit Union, thrIVefwb, Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson, Magnolia Grill, and the Air Force Armament Museum.
The First Friday Coffee began with a stirring Pledge of Allegiance led by veterans Howard Hill, Tom Moody, Dick Rynearson, and John Wambough, setting an inspirational tone for the morning. Corcoran also detailed upcoming “Honoring Our Heroes” events from April 28-30, including a special “Welcome Home” tribute to Vietnam Veterans. These events unite the community through shared memories, meaningful conversations, and a banquet honoring the veterans’ courage and sacrifices.
The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber encourages residents to join in honoring the legacy of these brave individuals.
Honoring Our Heroes: Welcome Home, a Tribute to Vietnam Veterans is open to the public, with free admission to the educational programs on April 28-29. Ticket information for the Heroes’ Tribute Banquet on April 30 is available online at FWBchamber.org.
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About Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce is a community development organization that advocates for businesses across Okaloosa County, creating greater opportunities for all. The Chamber brings together the business, non-profit, governmental, and cultural leaders of our area, which strengthens local business and enhances the quality of life in our community. The Chamber offers business promotion, advocacy on local issues, exposure to its members, and various opportunities to serve the community.
