Hawks Cay Resort will hold its 17th annual Heroes Salute on Labor Day weekend, Aug. 29 to 31. The tradition continues the resort’s longstanding commitment to honoring the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel, fire rescue teams, law enforcement officers, and frontline healthcare workers.
Highlights of the Heroes Salute Weekend include a 5K run/walk, the popular Touch-a-Truck event sponsored by Firehouse Subs, poolside festivities with BBQ, and an evening tribute featuring live entertainment by the rock band Stormfront, capped with a fireworks display.
“At Hawks Cay, Heroes Salute is more than just an annual event; it’s the heart of our resort’s mission,” said Elise Gertenbach, director of sales and marketing. “Each year, we strive to create an atmosphere of deep respect and genuine celebration for the courageous men and women who serve our communities and our country. It’s our privilege to host a weekend that not only honors their service but also creates lasting memories for families who join us from near and far.”
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Angler & Ale (Saturday, Aug. 30)
● 6:30 a.m.: 5K run/walk packet pickup
● 6:50 a.m.: national anthem
● 7 a.m.: 5K run/walk race start (open to the public). Participants are encouraged to wear patriotic attire or department gear. Register by scanning the QR code.
QR LINK: https://events.hakuapp.com/heroes-salute-5k
● 8-10 a.m.: Touch-A-Truck sponsored by Firehouse Subs (open to the public). Experience fire trucks, police vehicles and life-saving equipment up close.
Property-wide
● Noon to 6 p.m.: Poolside DJ and authentic American BBQ. Celebrate summer with food, cocktails and music.
● Noon to 6 p.m.: Resort-wide family activities. Detailed flyer available at Hawks Cay.
Saltwater lagoon
● 7:30 p.m.: Heroes Salute Tribute. A heartfelt ceremony featuring presentations from the Coast Guard, Wounded Warrior groups and local dignitaries. Guests can submit photos and stories of their heroes for inclusion. Submit a hero’s photo by scanning the QR code.
QR LINK: https://www.hawkscay.com/special-offers/heroes-salute/whos-your-hero/
● 7:44 p.m.: National anthem performed by Kristen McNamara with USCG flyover.
● 8:15 p.m.: Live musical entertainment by Stormfront, playing crowd favorites from the ’60s to ’90s.
● 10 p.m.: Fireworks. A spectacular show over the Atlantic Ocean concludes the celebration.
Active and retired military, first responders and frontline healthcare workers receive 30% off the best available rate, with a reduced resort fee of just $25 per night. Valid identification is required at check-in.
