OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — Okaloosa County will honor military service members this Veterans Day with a public appreciation event and unveiling of two new life-sized statues recognizing women veterans.
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The ceremony will take place on November 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center on Okaloosa Island, according to Okaloosa County.
The new statues will depict Sgt. Nicole L. Gee of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and an Iroquois Warrior Woman who served during the War of 1812. They will join the Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park, which celebrate the service and sacrifice of female veterans throughout U.S. history.
Okaloosa County Vice Chairman Carolyn Ketchel said the county’s deep appreciation for its veterans is reflected in this tribute.
“We love our veterans in Okaloosa County and we want to make sure they feel our appreciation with this event,” said Ms Ketchel.
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“We are also very proud to unveil two magnificent statues of women veterans that will be added to the Women Veterans Park.”
Commissioner Drew Palmer of District 5, a U.S. Air Force veteran and longtime defense industry professional, voiced his support for the initiative.
“Recognizing the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families is not only meaningful, it’s essential,” said Mr Palmer.
“This event is a powerful tribute that reflects Okaloosa County’s deep appreciation for their service and the enduring value they bring to our community.”
The new figures will be installed at Veterans Park at a later date, along with two others unveiled in June, bringing the total number of women veteran statues at the park to 12.
Additional dedications this Veterans Day week will include new benches honoring The Center for Lifelong Learning, Republican Women of Okaloosa Federated, and Women Veterans Group Air Force Enlisted Village.
Sgt. Gee served as a maintenance technician with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and played a vital role during the 2021 evacuation of Kabul by assisting Afghan women and children. She was among 18 U.S. service members killed in a suicide bombing on August 27, 2021.
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The Iroquois Warrior statue represents Native American women who served in the War of 1812. At least five Iroquois women—Polly Cooper, Susan Jacob, Dinah John, Julia John, and Dolly Schenandoah—were documented as “cooks” in official records, though many reportedly fought alongside their husbands in combat. The sculpture serves as a symbolic tribute to their courage and service.
Veterans Park is located on Okaloosa Island behind the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, 1300 Miracle Strip Parkway SE in Fort Walton Beach.
