Honor Our Heroes
State Congresswoman Anna Luna joins Local Church in Honorary Heroes Ceremony
A tribute to our military service men and women was held to recognize those who serve and have served. Community Bible Baptist invites all first responders, including nurses, doctors, paramedics, police officers, and firefighters to attend for their recognition in the ceremony every year in September.
All photos are captured by Mack Media Tampa Bay: Shots taken by Shelley Macfarland and Laura Davis
Sept.15 2024
At the heart of Pinellas, Community Bible Baptist Church held a memorable service on Sunday September 15th to "Honor Our Heroes.” A tribute to our military service men and women was held to recognize those who serve and have served as a first responder. Every year CBBC invites all first responders, including nurses and doctors to attend for their recognition in the ceremony.
The service opened with a video showing a tribute to the many that lost their lives during the attack on 9/11. The video showed the planes flying into the World Trade Center and the first responders who ran towards danger to save others, even though it was unclear if they would return home. It was a moving tribute to those who gave their lives on that fateful day.
After the video, voices of the choir filled the church with hymns of praise followed by the sound of the bagpipes leading into the National Anthem. The gripping tune of “Taps” was performed by trumpeter Pastor Mike Austin, sending chills down the spines of those who listened. The congregation rose to their feet in silence honoring those who did not have the privilege of making it home to their loved ones.
During the service, State Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna brought her voice to the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of recognizing those who serve our community by thanking Pastor Brent Stancil first and foremost for hosting the event each year in September.
“All I can say is Pastor Stancil, time and time again, never fails to amaze us in what he’s done for this community, and he is also a veteran, so thank you Pastor Stancil for your service” -Anna Luna
The Congresswoman shared touching anecdotes specifically honoring her husband as a wounded warrior who was shot in Afghanistan back in 2014 illustrating the dedication it takes to save lives. Her presence added a layer of significance to the event as she called upon everyone to remember these heroes, not just on special occasions, but every day.
Luna's heartfelt message continued, highlighting the intensity of the upcoming weeks, but sheds light on the matter nonetheless. “Although the next 6 weeks are going to be a little intense, I think I know exactly what’s going to happen.” Luna continues, “in my travels around the world meeting with other world officials, everyone looks to the United States.”
Luna shares that though we have been impacted by events like 9/11, where our country takes a beating and politics get nasty, she voices there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
“We are a nation that is blessed by God, I genuinely believe that.”
Luna closes with her final statement, “everyone knows that the United States is that beacon of shining light and freedom and we’re going to be restoring all of that this November.”
Not only did the Congresswoman make an appearance, but Pastor Stancil recognized the City Manager and other Councilman for their attendance to the service, including Bart Diebold, Ricky Butler, and Tim Caddell.
In continuance of the Honor Our Heroes recognition ceremony, some first responders were awarded for their outstanding efforts. All stories demonstrated acts of bravery as each of their stories were highlighted.
Local Station No. 34 and No. 19 joined Pastor Stancil on the platform receiving a gift for their service to the community. Pastor Stancil stated in recognition “a hero is not a football player or a sports star but is someone that serves others in their darkest moments.”
The next honoree on the list could not be present to the ceremony but was honored publicly nonetheless as a local Normandy survivor. Joseph Cervenka a 108 yr. old veteran born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1916. During the 2nd World War, Joseph served in the Navy as a gunner’s mate first class. Joseph found himself on the beach of Normandy performing beach master duties defending to take back Europe. When asked about his thoughts on turning 100, he stated to his nephew “every day I wake up, I’m surprised” with his playful personality. The recognition ended in a standing ovation for his honorary service.
Sergeant Jacob Viano was praised as a “local celeb” receiving the ‘First Responder of the Year of Award’ for his heroism during a Pinellas County shooting. Viano was working Squad No. 2 when he received the call.
“His entire career prepared him for that exact occasion in order to save my life” stated Corporal Matt Aitken.
Vianos lengthy resume as former SWAT, narcotics officer and canine handler paid off on this particular day. “It was divine intervention that he ran that night” stated Lieutenant Jason Schmittendorf regarding Vianos heroic action as he took down the target saving the life of his partner, Corporal Aitken, who was injured. The crowd stood in respect of the heroism displayed followed by a standing ovation for all who were honored.
Pastor Stancil goes on to share how all of this came about. His journey pastoring in Texas took an unexpected turn during the events of 9/11—a moment that re-shaped not just his life but also his profound connection to first responders within the local community. With roots embedded in values passed down through generations, including the sacrifice made by his grandfather during World War II, Pastor Stancil embodies a heart for people that inspires all who cross his path.
Pastor Stancil wraps up a strong message on the courage it takes to stand on truth. “He states that males and females are the problem, men and women are the answers.” With sincerity in every word spoken, Pastor Stancil leaves everyone with a renewed sense of purpose— and a call to action. His message is simple yet powerful: If we don’t have convictions in the small things, we will not have courage in the big things!
All Photos captured by Mack Media Tampa Bay
