This year's Spirit of Freedom: Bud Day
Two years running, area military men have been named recipients of the Spirit of Freedom award.
This year’s honoree is retired Air Force Col. George “Bud” Day of Shalimar.
The award is presented annually to a Northwest Florida resident who exemplifies Freedom Communications’ core values of respect for individual freedom, self-responsibility, integrity, community, and lifelong learning.
Day was nominated for the award by Kathleen Reed of Shalimar, who wrote in her nomination: “It is my family’s opinion, and my opinion, that Bud Day is a phenomenal person and a bona fide American hero.
“Not only is he a surviving POW who endured great hardship, but since then he has gone on to become an attorney, and he advocates for the rights, fair treatment and dignity of military retirees and the elderly.
“I simply cannot think of any person in America who better embodies the ‘Spirit of Freedom’ than Bud Day.”
Virtually to a person, the same sentiments are shared by others who know Day, a former Air Force pilot, Vietnam prisoner of war and Medal of Honor recipient.
“Words can’t express everything Bud Day has done for this country,” said U.S. Rep. Jeff Miller, who represents Florida’s 1st Congressional District.
“This man truly knows no fear. Col. Day is a model of strength, dignity, courage and honor, whether on the battlefield, in the courtroom or at home with his family. America is a much better place because of him.”
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| I have known Colonel Bud Day since 1971 as a POW in Hanoi. He is the finest and most courageous leader and man I have ever known. We are all better for his having come our way. I join you in saluting Colonel Day -- Bud is truly a remarkable man and friend. |
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| Orson Swindle - Nov 30, 2007 12:04:27 PM | Remove Comment |