Fort Walton Beach Rallies in Powerful Community Convoy for Firefighter’s Family

In Brief:

👨‍🚒 Who: Fort Walton Beach Firefighter David Leonard, his daughter Marlow, and the Fort Walton Beach community
🚗 What: A Community Convoy fundraiser and show of support
📅 When: Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, beginning at 9 a.m.
📍 Where: From The Block to Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson in Fort Walton Beach
❤️ Why: To support Leonard and his newborn daughter and honor the memory of his wife, Crysta Leonard

FORT WALTON BEACH — The Fort Walton Beach community will rally Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, around one of its own, as local businesses, first responders, and residents come together for a “Community Convoy” in support of Fort Walton Beach Firefighter David Leonard and his family.

The event is being held to support Leonard and his newborn daughter, Marlow, and to honor the memory of his wife, Crysta Leonard, who passed away last month due to complications from childbirth.

Organizers say the convoy is meant to be both a show of solidarity and a way to provide direct support to the Leonard family during an unimaginable time.

The day will begin at 9 a.m. at The Block nightclub, located at 113 Eglin Parkway SE, where attendees can enjoy live music, breakfast, and drop off donations for the family. No registration is required, and all motor vehicles are welcome to participate.

At 11 a.m., the Community Convoy will depart The Block and travel north on Eglin Parkway, turn west onto Hollywood Boulevard, and pass Fort Walton Beach Fire Station No. 6 — a meaningful stop along the route — before continuing north on Beal Parkway to Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson.

The convoy is expected to arrive at Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson, located at 788 Beal Parkway NW, around 11:30 a.m., where the event will continue with live music, free food, and local vendors.

The Community Convoy is sponsored by The Block, Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson, Fast Signs of Fort Walton Beach/Destin, and Motorcycle Riding Events of America, with coordination support from the Fort Walton Beach Fire Department.

Organizers emphasize that the event is open to the entire community and is intended to demonstrate the strength and compassion for which Fort Walton Beach is known.

For more information, residents can contact Fort Walton Beach Battalion Chief Matthew Baxley at 850-758-5437.