Patronis Demands Answers on Special Operations Relocation
Florida Congressman Jimmy Patronis and Senators Rick Scott and Ashley Moody are pressing Pentagon leaders for answers after the Air Force finalized its plan to move the 492nd Special Operations Wing from Northwest Florida to Arizona. In a sharply worded letter, the lawmakers warn the relocation could slow U.S. response times to growing threats in Venezuela and the Caribbean and question why the Air Force relied on Biden-era climate considerations instead of current national security priorities.
Dive Into History: SS United States Reef Project
Okaloosa County has partnered with Visit Pensacola and CCA Florida to transform the historic SS United States into the world’s largest artificial reef. The $2 million project, scheduled for early 2026, aims to enhance marine habitats, attract divers from around the globe, and boost tourism across Northwest Florida.
Okaloosa Technical College Recognized as Military-Friendly Purple Star Campus
Okaloosa Technical College has been named a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education, recognizing the school’s comprehensive support for military members, veterans, and their families across all OTC sites.
OPINION: Why Won’t Okaloosa County Honor The Only Woman Awarded The Medal Of Honor At Their Women Veterans Monnunment?
Why won’t the Okaloosa County Women Veterans Monument Committee honor Dr. Mary Walker?
AirHeart 1 Heroes Honored With Memorial By South Walton Fire District
As the sound of “Amazing Grace” drifted across the Choctawhatchee Bay, the South Walton Fire District gathered at Thomas Pilcher Park to dedicate the new “Heroes Remembered” monument honoring the three AirHeart 1 crew members who died during a 2004 medical transport mission. Family, friends, and firefighters reflected on the sacrifice of Jack Chase, Tom Palcic, and Robert Heighton at the very site where rescue crews once searched for the fallen team.
Active-Duty EOD Technician Honors Vietnam Veteran with Bedside Salute on Veterans Day
On Veterans Day, Senior Airman Justin Hart honored Vietnam veteran and former EOD technician Irv Duvall with a bedside salute at Shoal Creek River Rehab, recognizing his decades of service and sacrifice.
HVAC Give-Back: Local A/C Company Donates New System to Vet During Government Shutdown
Air Force Sergeant John Demos and his family are receiving a brand-new HVAC system from Mills Heating and Air, a welcome gift during financial hardship caused by the government shutdown.
Okaloosa County to Observe Veterans Day with Unveiling of New Women Veteran Statues
Okaloosa County will mark Veterans Day with a ceremony at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, featuring the unveiling of two new statues honoring women veterans, including Marine Sgt. Nicole L. Gee and an Iroquois Warrior Woman from the War of 1812. The statues will later be added to the Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park on Okaloosa Island.
Wreaths Across America Seeks Sponsors to Honor Every Veteran in Niceville and Valparaiso
Wreaths Across America’s Twin Cities chapter is calling on the community to help honor local veterans this December by sponsoring wreaths for every grave in Niceville and Valparaiso. Ceremonies will take place on December 13, 2025, at Sunset Cemetery and Heritage Gardens to remember and honor those who served.
Duke Field aircraft crashes near Oklahoma City; crew walks away
A training flight from Duke Field’s 492nd Special Operations Wing ended in a crash near Oklahoma City on Thursday — but both crew members, an airman and a civilian contractor, escaped without injury.
