Military roots run deep in Clay County. As the home of both a former and current military training base with a strong military community, this November we welcome you to honor our veterans and also visit the veteran-owned businesses here in Clay County.
Take a look at some places of interest in Clay County –
Veterans Day Events in Clay County
On Veterans Day, families are invited to join the Camp Blanding Museum for Family Day at the Museum along with a commemorative ceremony taking place on the front steps of the museum. Along with touring the museum, visitors can enjoy a special lunch at the museum – with real World War II prices. The first 100 veterans at the museum will receive a free, limited edition t-shirt honoring Veterans Day and the museum’s events of the day.
Located just inside the gates of Orange Park’s Magnolia Cemetery, visitors can pay respects at Clay County’s Veterans Memorial. Built as a place of quiet contemplation to honor our area veterans, the memorial features plaques engraved with the emblems of the six branches of the military. Pavers throughout the memorial are engraved with the names of local veterans.
Every November, the Historical Society of Orange Park hosts an annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the memorial. The public is invited to attend and honor loved ones and veterans from our community.
Veteran-Owned Businesses in Clay County
Join us in celebrating the veteran-owned businesses in our community – from shopping local to dining and more.
At Just a Pinch Café & Catering, owner and veteran Bernard Santiago prides himself on sharing Southern dishes with a unique fusion of his Hawaiian culture and flavors. Located in Fleming Island, don’t miss trying the popular Bernard-a-Que pulled pork and yes, you’ll always find Spam on the menu here too!
Open for Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch every Wednesday through Sunday, try Katsu chicken tenderloins or the tasty Chicken and Hawaiian French Toast. In the mood for breakfast? Try the pineapple upside down pancakes paired with Spam and Bernard’s homemade Coconut syrup. You’ll instantly feel like you are in Hawaii.
In Orange Park, stop in to see the husband/wife team and Navy veterans Brian and Brandye Mackey at the festive Mackey’s Munchies. Focusing on cajun and creole favorites, Mr. Mackey hails from Louisiana and brought the Bayou flavors to Clay County.
From gumbos to shrimp po’ boys or shrimp and grits, be sure to place an order for their scrumptious beignets too! The Mackeys love being involved and forming relationships with their customers by hosting community events like literature night, fundraisers, live music events and their annual Mardi Gras festivities at the restaurant.
