As the afternoon sun streamed through the windows of the Clay County Board of County Commissioners meeting room, a palpable sense of pride filled the air. The gathering began with a heartfelt tribute to a local hero, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Helen Garfin, who led the Pledge of Allegiance. Garfin, a decorated veteran with nearly six years of service in the United States Navy, shared her journey from Guam to various naval hospitals, including those in Okinawa, Japan, and Jacksonville, Florida.

Garfin's commitment to service extended beyond her military career; she now works as a registered nurse at the Naval Hospital Jacksonville and has volunteered for medical missions across Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Her dedication to both her country and community resonated with those present, as she reflected on the values of honor, courage, and commitment that she learned during her time in the Navy.

After leading the pledge, Garfin expressed her gratitude for the invitation to the meeting, marking her first appearance at such an event. The commissioners, all present and attentive, acknowledged her contributions with appreciation, setting a respectful tone for the discussions that would follow.

With the meeting officially called to order, the focus shifted to the pressing matters at hand for Clay County. The recognition of Garfin not only highlighted the importance of honoring veterans but also underscored the community's commitment to supporting those who serve. As the meeting progressed, the commissioners aimed to address various issues impacting the county, ensuring that the spirit of service and dedication continued to guide their efforts.