Bill Gaines Sr. 1932 - 2021
October 18, 2021
William Ray Gaines (Bill, Billy Ray), 89, Tampa, FL, entered the gates of heaven on October 18, 2021 under the gentle care of Suncoast Hospice, Empath Health, in St. Petersburg, FL.
What we chose to remember depends on who’s calling the shots | Opinion
Published: Oct. 18, 2021 in the PenLive Patriot News
October 18, 2021
By Mireille Rebeiz
While the United States chooses to remember soldiers like William Gaines who died serving peace, Lebanon has taken a different tact and has opted for amnesty and amnesia.Liberty Tree
October 9, 2021
On October 9th at 10:00am at the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park there was a "Liberty Tree" dedication.
There is a rich history behind the story of the Liberty Tree that dates back to the American Revolution.
You can learn more about this event from the Charlotte Sun article titled Celebrate our independence with Liberty Tree dedication Saturday.
The story behind the Liberty Tree can be read on line at the Smithsonian Magazine here.
BVA Announces Support for Beirut Peacekeepers Memorial Tower
January 1, 2021
The Beirut Veterans of America (BVA) is dedicated to keeping the memories alive of those comrades who served in and around Beirut, Lebanon, and especially those who gave their lives as the ultimate price paid for freedom. This includes those who served in Beirut in the 1950's, 1970's and the conflict in the 1980's.
Successful 1st Annual Freedom Run
December 31, 2020
Thank you to all those who participated in the 1st Freedom Run at the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park. Over 100 runners, volunteers, and supporters showed up before 9am for the 5K race.
William R. Gaines Jr Freedom Run 5K
December 31, 2020
Join us for one of the last 5k's of the year and let's leave 2020 in the dust! The race will start and end at the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park. All proceeds will go toward the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Fund.
9am start time
9am start time