“As we prepare to usher in the unofficial start of summer with backyard barbecues, boating, and fireworks, I ask the community to join the CFK family to reflect on why this day is important. Memorial Day is a time to honor the memories of those who died for our country. It is a time for heroes, both those who have fallen and those who are still living. We thank our military, as well as law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, and other first responders for working tirelessly to protect American lives. 

CFK is grateful to all servicemen and women and their families for their commitment and sacrifices, and for their continued service to protect our lives and our freedom. Over the years, the College has benefitted from the contributions of many veterans. Each one deserves special recognition. Today, I salute a fallen hero whose legacy of helping others lives on. Edward Knight, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 99, was a World War II veteran, founding partner of Prudential Knight & Gardner Realty, and benefactor of the ‘Edward B. Knight Rotary Club of Key West CFK Vocational Scholarship.’ 

Before Mr. Knight became a prominent businessman, passionate philanthropist, and beloved local legend, he was a Naval Aviator. At the age of 13, Mr. Knight was inspired by Charles Lindberg’s trans-oceanic flight, and although poor and financially on his own, he was determined to learn how to fly. Fortunately, he was one of just five to earn a scholarship to the Civilian Pilot Training Program in Jacksonville, Florida. As the nation prepared for the possibility of a second world war, Mr. Knight earned his wings at the age of 16—undeterred by the fact that he was a year shy of the qualifying age of 17.   

As a Seaman Second Class E-5, he piloted a seaplane to combat German submarines that were sinking U.S. merchant ships between Key West and Cuba—the assignment that first brought him to his future island home. His years as a WWII Naval Aviator took him to many Pacific island stations including Saipan, Tinian, Okinawa, and eventually Guam where he spent the last 10 months of the war. He served as a test pilot for carrier-based fighter and torpedo bomber planes at the same control center which launched the planes that delivered the atomic bombs to end the war.  

Mr. Knight concluded his military service as a lieutenant and chose to return to Key West where he married the love of his life and business partner Joan Thompson Knight. Since then, Knight has contributed to society in numerous ways, particularly through his support of charitable organizations that focus on the development and education of young people. Recognizing the value of vocational training to our local economy as well as to individuals seeking viable careers in the Keys, Mr. Knight prompted the Rotary Club of Key West, of which he was a longtime member, to create a new scholarship. Established in 2012 in Mr. Knight’s name, the $4,000 award supports individuals seeking technical and workforce training at CFK. 

Even in the later years of his life, Mr. Knight remained sharp, savvy, witty, and adventurous. He continued to be active in local civic and political organizations including the Rotary Club of Key West, the Key West Chamber of Commerce, the Military Affairs Committee, the South Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Key West Association of Realtors, and the Key West Art & Historical Society, among others.   

On behalf of the CFK family, I salute Lieutenant Edward Knight this Memorial Day. We will continue to value his contributions and dedication to our country and community. His service is an inspiration to all.”