The 40th Anniversary of the Broward County Florida Council of the Navy League drew a record crowd that included retired military men and women and their families, people interested in supporting the sea services and current members of the U.S. Coast Guard's Tactical Law Enforcement Teams ... TACLET, a seagoing "SWAT" team whose job it is to stop those "untouchable" crime lords.

The tables were filled with a feast and the seats with military heroes, past and present. It was a group of dedicated patriots who flocked to the Tropical Acres Restaurant on 10 April to enjoy a fine dinner and, while recalling the past, show their concern about the present and curiosity about the future -- fully aware that "freedom is not free."

Dressed impeccably in his Navy uniform displaying a chest full of medals, Chief Petty Officer Allan Star, USN (Ret.), carried out his duties as Master of Ceremonies flawlessly with charm, intelligence and military professionalism.

Following the presentation of the colors by Travella High School's Drill Team, those dedicated to the Navy League and the military around the world were honored.

Celeste Keegan, a Broward County Navy League Board Member for many years, was given a standing ovation for her dedication to the chapter and to America's men and women at sea.  Also honored were past Presidents of the chapter, as well as the current president, Bill Weiler.

Among the presenters was Captain Karl Schultz, USCG, Commander Coast Guard Surface Operations South, Captain Steve Mehling, USCG, Commanding Officer, Coast Guard Station Miami, and Lt. Scott Rooke, USCG, Commanding Officer, Coast Guard Station Ft. Lauderdale. Long time Ft. Lauderdale mayor Jim Naugle read a proclamation from the city honoring the chapter as did Laurie Watkins, representing U.S. Rep. Ron Klein. Alan Starr, USN (Ret.), read a proclamation from Broward County Mayor Wexler's office honoring the chapter.

Guest speaker CDR John Daly, USCG, commanding officer and head of the Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Teams -- the sea going SWAT teams whose job it is to board suspect vessels -- took the audience on an unforgettable video journey into the Eastern Pacific Ocean.  The incredible video showed a vessel, mostly submerged, moving through the water the Coast Guard in pursuit. CDR Daly explained that ships like these carry tons of illegal drugs headed to American shores. When the vessels realize they have been spotted and are pursued by the Coast Guard they pull the plug and sink the ship. Wearing life vests, they jump overboard knowing the Coast Guard will rescue them. Daly says the arrests made are critically important because during their interrogation much is learned that aids in the war against drugs. Daly was asked where these vessels are made. He explained they are constructed in the mountains of Columbia for drug lords. There was loud applause for CDR Daly USCG. It was a night no one would soon forget.

If you would like to join the Broward County Council and support the seagoing services, call Bob Hein at 954-764-6366 or Marianne Giambrone at 954-389-0545.