Dagger Dive III was the name of the recent event held at our Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in Key West. The diving trip was part of a recreational therapy program that focuses on injured soldiers, their spouses, and children. The group taking part in Dagger Dive III included seven Special Operations soldiers who were severely wounded in combat and their families.
Key West showed its appreciation and support of these wounded heroes with many restaurants and dive shops providing complimentary meals and trips. Our local hotels also gave reduced rates to these special visitors. According to The Florida Keys news, one participant commented, “We’re in a hospital environment all the time, and to come out here as a family is a great thing, emotionally. We’re recharging and rehabilitating.”
The spirit of this Key West rehabilitation trip can be felt in this video of one Special Operations soldier and his wife and son. I commend The Task Force Dagger Foundation and those in Key West who made this event possible. Our U.S. Army Special Operations Command soldiers live by the motto, “The Quiet Professionals”. Their presence around the world is known only to a few as they protect America.
I found that The Task Force Dagger Foundation’s name was chosen because “Task Force Dagger” was the name of the Special Operations initial invasion into Afghanistan following September 11, 2001. According to The Task Force Dagger Foundation site, The U.S. Army Special Operations Command units have been described as “the tip of the spear” in protecting the United States. The USASOC was activated in 1989 and it includes units such as the US Army Special Forces and US Army Rangers.
We owe so much to brave men and women such as the seven Special Operations soldiers who visited our island this past week. I extend a thank you to all of our military and to The Task Force Dagger Foundation for their fine work. I am always proud of the warm welcome and support Key West extends to the members of our military and their families.
The Key West attitude and culture of welcome and acceptance is a wonderful reason to call this island home. Give me a call today, and I’m ready with all the experience and options to help you make this a reality. Jimmy Lane: 305-766-0585.