Fundraising for Bud and Dorie Day Patriots' Trail

A message from Doris Day, Col. Day's widow:

I was honored when my friends in the Fort Walton Beach Woman’s Club, in partnership with the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, shared their vision to create a wonderful tribute to my husband, Col Bud Day, and me—right here in our backyard.

They suggested a walking trail and nature preserve, which would begin at the area on the west end of the ditch on California Dr (behind Uptown Station) and wind down to the walking area at Ferry Park and Docie Bass Recreation Center. This tiny stream of water empties into Good Thing Lake, Choctawhatchee Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and the waters of the world.

Thanks to Warren Averett and Waldorff Insurance and Bonding for their commitment to start the trail on the property  behind their offices at 45 Eglin Parkway.  The Trail will wind its way from Staff Drive, along  Nebraska Avenue, down California Drive, and then follow a creek, eventually ending at Ferry Park (on Oregon Drive). (See the map below.)

The significance of this area is dear to my heart. It is an opportunity for our town to take an unused natural trail and carefully design and develop the tract recognizing the charitable and historic accomplishments of an American Patriot, my partnership with him, and the tears and years of dedication to bring our Prisoners of War home. Bud would be extremely proud to be remembered with me in this beautiful part of Fort Walton Beach. The organizers are suggesting the name: Bud and Dorie Day Patriots’ Trail. My greatest link with you is for you to allow me to be a part of your neighborhood.

I am honored that my friends thought to honor Bud and me in such a way. The Chamber is leading the way in gathering sponsorships for this project. If you have any questions or concerns about the project, I ask that you contact Ted Corcoran, 244-8191, President of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce.

It will be open from Dawn to Dusk
It will be ADA Compliant/Handicap Accessible
All trail amenities will be funded by donations and sponsorships
It will become a City of Fort Walton Beach maintained park

Bud & Dorie Day Trail Donation Form 

All donations are tax-deductible. Please make out checks to the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber Foundation - a 501(c)3 entity.