Coke Florida Celebrates America’s 250 Anniversary with Military Family Appreciation Event at MacDill Air Force Base
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) hosted Military Family Appreciation Day on Saturday, July 11, at the Defense Commissary Agency (DECA) Commissary on MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa.
Coca-Cola is a signature partner for the national America250 initiative. Coca-Cola Beverages Florida is the Coca-Cola bottler serving Florida and supporting the initiative locally by bringing patriotic experiences across the state. Through our partnership with the MacDill AFB Commissary and Blue Star Families, we invited members of the Tampa Bay military community, including active service members, veterans, and base personnel. They enjoyed interactive activities, family-friendly games, complimentary food, beverage sampling, giveaways, and more.
Our patriotic-themed mobile camper served as the highlight of the event, offering a lounge space and backdrop for commemorative photos. Monster Energy, a Coca-Cola brand partner, also participated with product sampling and their signature monster truck, providing another exciting event attraction.
“America’s 250th anniversary is a milestone to celebrate our nation’s history while honoring the people who continue to serve it,” said Brad Paranese, Director, Shopper Marketing at Coke Florida. “This event is our way of recognizing the extraordinary military families who strengthen our community every day. We are proud to create an experience that brings these families together and the opportunity to express our gratitude in a unique way as they stopped by and shopped at the Commissary.”
Blue Star Families, a national nonprofit focused on serving military-connected families, welcomed attendees and connected them with valuable programs, services, and community resources.
“With most local military families residing in communities throughout the region, opportunities like this is a meaningful reminder that they are part of a broader community that recognizes, appreciates, and celebrates their service, sacrifice, and resilience,” said Suzy Malloy, Executive Director, Blue Star Families – Tampa Bay Region. “Our military community thanks Coke Florida for hosting a fun event during this historic milestone for our country.”
The Military Family Appreciation event was a component of Coke Florida’s year-long America250 campaign, reflecting our ongoing commitment to investing in the communities we serve while strengthening Coca-Cola’s partnership with the Defense Commissary Agency.
