The Museum of Military History hosted a day of remembrance on Saturday, Aug. 9, bringing veterans, families, and community leaders together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The tribute, held at the museum on West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, featured a free daytime open house with exhibit access, veterans resources, and local vendors, followed by an evening dinner program.
St. Cloud Mayor Chris Robertson praised the museum’s efforts and the community’s turnout. “Across Osceola County, we are committed to remembering the sacrifices of our WWII veterans and passing their legacy forward,” Robertson said. “Events like this bring history to life and remind us of our shared responsibility to serve.”
Among those recognized were two remarkable local centenarian veterans. St. Cloud resident and community favorite Pat Rudd served with the U.S. Navy WAVES, assigned to Pearl Harbor after America entered the war, and Louis “Lou” Boria, Jr., a U.S. Marine, who served across the Pacific in World War II and later during the Korean War.
“Veterans are woven into the very fabric of Osceola County’s history. To be raised here, to see a museum that honors every veteran, and now to serve on its board; sharing its mission through my platform, is an incredible honor. Our veterans have given us their best. In Osceola, we strive every day to give them nothing less. Everyone resident or visitor, should take a moment to visit this museum” — Steve Montiero, News Anchor at News 6 WKMG, Museum of Military History board member, and emcee of the WWII event.
The program was presented in partnership with Experience Kissimmee and carried the national theme, “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive,” a reminder of V-J Day—Victory over Japan Day—which marks the end of World War II in the Pacific. In the United States, V-J Day is commonly associated with Aug. 15, 1945, when Japan announced its surrender; the formal surrender was signed aboard the USS Missouri on Sept. 2, 1945.
The museum thanked attendees, volunteers, and partners for making the commemoration possible. For information about upcoming programs and exhibits, visit MuseumofMilitaryHistory.com or call 407-507-3894.
