BY DAN HILDEBRAN
U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Second Class Dillon Chance Bailey addressed Union County High School’s Veteran’s Day Ceremony.
Bailey, a member of Union County High School’s 2012 State Championship baseball team, said the experience taught him about teamwork and resiliency, which he carried over to his military career.
The Coast Guard officer recounted some of his assignments in the service, including counternarcotics operations with Haitian immigrants, search and rescue missions for the El Faro, a container ship that sank during Hurricane Joaquin in 2015, and taking part in 272 maritime law enforcement boardings.
Bailey said that the Coast Guard uniquely fills the roles of both the military and law enforcement.
He added that in his current role as a Jacksonville-based recruiter, he has helped 30 applicants chart a bright future for themselves by joining the Coast Guard.
Bailey also said he was proud to participate in the Lake Butler Rotary Club’s effort to place over 400 crosses and flags on State Road 121, honoring Union County veterans.
“Each cross is more than a piece of wood,” he said. “It represents a life that served often, sacrificing much for our freedoms.”
