SWFL.io - Local NewsWriter: Carolyn Dolcimascolo
•7/31/2026
LEE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Lee County's "Spirit of '45" will honor World War II veterans and their legacies at an event on Aug. 9 in Lee County.
The ceremony and dinner recognize veterans who served more than 80 years ago in a war that changed the world. With fewer World War II veterans remaining, gatherings like this have become increasingly significant.
"Last year, I think I had about 16 World War II veterans, which, believe it or not, is a good number in one gathering," said Eryka Aptaker, organizer of Spirit of '45. "There was one gentleman who was 107 years old."
Aptaker invited WINK News to attend in 2025, and on Thursday, stopped by WINK Listens in Cape Coral to extend another invitation. The event honors veterans' sacrifice, courage, and commitment to defending freedom.
"Last year, I flipped it over to the guest speakers being family members of the World War II veterans deceased, and they talked in their honor or memory," Aptaker said. "And to me, that was the best way to keep their legacy alive."
101-year-old Ruth Blake served as a Yeoman in the Navy during WWII, Korea, and Vietnam and will be at the ceremony.
The event serves as a reminder that preserving stories from the Greatest Generation is just as important as celebrating their service. It ensures future generations never forget the men and women who helped shape history.
"The whole point of this initiative was to preserve the legacy of the World War II veterans," Aptaker added. "So, the only way we're going to do that is to make sure the younger generation knows of the service and sacrifice of the World War II veterans."
The dinner and ceremony are free for veterans and spouses. All others pay $45. Reservations MUST be made by Sunday. The event is on Aug. 9.
The event is at the Kelly Greens Golf & Country Club at 12300 Kelly Greens Blvd., off Summerlin Rd. It will be held from 4:15 p.m. to 7:15 P.M.
To make a reservation, contact Eryka at 917.607.4385 or by email at ejanyygirl@comcast.net.