O
n March 5, The Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce hosted an evening
of celebration for Fort Walton Beach history. The event presented by Eglin
Federal Credit Union was in part a fundraising event to benefit the Gulf
Restoration Project, and a private preview of the historic Gulfview Hotel
in all of its newly restored splendor before it opens to the public, along with a heroes’
reception. The Gulfview was built in 1903 by Architect E.B. Goodrich; 89 years later it
was designated as a historic site on October 22, 1992.
Author Dennis Okerstrom made a presentation about the Air Commandos, while
during the evening guests had the opportunity to meet the three remaining original Air
Commandos, including the last Doolittle Raider Lt Col (Ret) Dick Cole, SMSgt Bill
Cartwright and SSgt Patt Meara. The three distinguished gentlemen are the last known
surviving members from the 1st Air Commando Group of World War II. Guests enjoyed
photo ops, and book signings. The delicious spread was provided by the Magnolia Grill
with wine by Twisted Grapes and beer by Props Brewery.
photos & story by
Zhalman Harris
VIP Destin Gulfview Historic Hotel
GULFVIEW
Grand Preview
62 | VIPDestinMagazine.com
Nicole & Jason Floyd
Lt. Col (Ret) Dick Cole & Melissa McSwain
Leslie Moland, Neal Kelly, Patricia Payne & Paul Stinebiser
Christine & Michael Rojas
Ryan Price & Kathy McNally
Eddie McAllister & Barbara Britt
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3/29/19 10:20 AM