Honoring a community champion

BY LA’KESHA O’NEAL, Contributor

ST. PETESBURG —Reverend Dr. Robert L. Harrison, a St. Petersburg College (SPC) graduate, has been a part of south St. Pete for more than 25 years. Prior to devoting his time reaching back to elevate his community, he served his country a total of 14 years in the armed services.

As a young man he desired to do something that would positively impact the world.

“Serving your country is one of the most honorable things a person can do,” Harrison said. The military groomed him to be the man that he is today.

 Harrison said that celebrating all the branches of the armed services is important; however, ensuring that all veterans receive the benefits they earn serving our country is one of his highest priorities.

When he isn’t fighting for veteran’s rights, he spends his days trying to be a beacon of hope in a city filled with youth whose lives are being prematurely ended by growing gun violence. Harrison is not only a celebrated military veteran, but a community hero that continually promotes programs and services that positively impact the community he lives in.

Please come out this Saturday, May 21 to help Harrison and SPC celebrate National Armed Forces Day during the SPC’s second annual Touch-a-Truck event from 10-2 p.m. at the Allstate Center, 3200 34th St. S, St. Pete.

Held annually on the third Saturday of May, National Armed Forces Day is a day to pay tribute to men and women who serve the United States’ armed forces.

Activities will include career and military exploration exhibits, employment opportunities and scholarship information. There will be free food, music and a rock-climbing wall, all provided through contributions from community partners.

The community will have a chance to take photos with members of the military, veterans, including Harrison, law enforcement officers and first responders to honor National Armed Forces Day.