‘Deserve to be honored:’ Horizon West American Legion needs help honoring veterans with a wreath
Read full article: ‘Deserve to be honored:’ Horizon West American Legion needs help honoring veterans with a wreathWith the holiday season approaching, the Horizon West American Legion Post 419 is working tirelessly to ensure that every veteran laid to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Gotha is honored during this year’s Wreaths Across America event on Dec. 13.
Lake County ceremonies show veterans ‘appreciation and gratitude’ for their service
Read full article: Lake County ceremonies show veterans ‘appreciation and gratitude’ for their serviceCommunities across Lake County came together Monday to honor America’s heroes on Veterans Day, with ceremonies in both Mount Dora and Tavares celebrating the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Last surviving Army Ranger from D-Day’s Omaha Beach honored with Congressional Gold Medal in Winter Park
Read full article: Last surviving Army Ranger from D-Day’s Omaha Beach honored with Congressional Gold Medal in Winter ParkMaj. Gen. John C. Raaen Jr., the last surviving U.S. Army Ranger who took part in the initial assault on Omaha Beach on D-Day, received the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony at The Mayflower at Winter Park on Wednesday.
Central Florida veteran to receive new home after crash destroyed his trailer
Read full article: Central Florida veteran to receive new home after crash destroyed his trailerA Korean War veteran in Ocklawaha is one step closer to moving into a new home after a crash left his trailer unlivable last month.
Orlando hosts POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony with former prisoner of war Jessica Lynch
Read full article: Orlando hosts POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony with former prisoner of war Jessica LynchCity leaders, veterans and community members gathered Friday in downtown Orlando to honor America’s prisoners of war and those still missing in action.
Funds raised after vehicle crashes into 92-year-old veteran’s Florida home
Read full article: Funds raised after vehicle crashes into 92-year-old veteran’s Florida homeA 92-year-old Korean War veteran finds himself displaced after a vehicle crashed into his Marion County home, leaving the structure condemned.
There’s a forsaken military lab hiding in Orlando. Here’s what happened to it
Read full article: There’s a forsaken military lab hiding in Orlando. Here’s what happened to itDrivers heading past Lake Gem Mary along Gatlin Avenue may be familiar with an old sealed-off building stashed away on the lakeside.
Dr. Terry Spain on veteran transition, investing, mentorship
Read full article: Dr. Terry Spain on veteran transition, investing, mentorshipCorie Murray interviews Dr. Terry Spain, a 21-year U.S. Navy veteran and retired Chief Petty Officer who is now the CEO of Sports First Media and Terry Spain Consulting.
Eustis veteran receives new roof through national deployment project
Read full article: Eustis veteran receives new roof through national deployment projectAfter years of struggling with roof leaks and ongoing concerns heading into hurricane season, a Lake County veteran and his family are finally getting a fresh start—thanks to a community-driven initiative honoring those who’ve served.
Orlando VA summit teaches caregivers to help veterans and themselves
Read full article: Orlando VA summit teaches caregivers to help veterans and themselvesThe Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) welcomed caregivers, VA staff, and community partners Monday for its Annual Caregiver Summit, a half-day event designed to connect, inform, and uplift those who provide daily support to the nation’s Veterans.
Groveland hosts first Memorial Day ceremony at restored African American Cemetery
Read full article: Groveland hosts first Memorial Day ceremony at restored African American CemeteryMonths after celebrating the restoration of the Oak Tree Union Colored Cemetery of Taylorville, the city of Groveland honored veterans buried there during what was likely the first Memorial Day Ceremony held there in decades.
PHOTOS: Memorial Day events in Central Florida ‘respect and honor those who fell’
Read full article: PHOTOS: Memorial Day events in Central Florida ‘respect and honor those who fell’As a veteran, I made it my mission this Memorial Day to visit as many events and ceremonies tied to the holiday as I could.
Memorial Day ceremony in Ocoee marked by personal reflections, military honors
Read full article: Memorial Day ceremony in Ocoee marked by personal reflections, military honorsVeterans, Gold Star families and city leaders gathered in Ocoee to commemorate servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice, holding a solemn Memorial Day ceremony marked by personal reflections and military honors.
Daytona Beach VA clinic celebrates anniversary amid budget cut questions
Read full article: Daytona Beach VA clinic celebrates anniversary amid budget cut questionsThe Daytona Beach VA Outpatient Clinic is celebrating a milestone amid lingering questions about budget cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Veterans speak out after Orlando bans longtime golf tradition near Central Florida Fairgrounds
Read full article: Veterans speak out after Orlando bans longtime golf tradition near Central Florida FairgroundsFor more than 30 years, a group of senior veterans have gathered to hit golf balls and swap stories on a patch of grass near the Central Florida Fairgrounds.
Lee Road hotel becoming home for homeless veterans with help of Central Florida nonprofit
Read full article: Lee Road hotel becoming home for homeless veterans with help of Central Florida nonprofitA nonprofit focused on issues related to homelessness is taking steps to get approval for a shelter for homeless veterans.
Orlando VA Healthcare System to host National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony
Read full article: Orlando VA Healthcare System to host National Vietnam War Veterans Day CeremonyThis milestone event honors and expresses gratitude to the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War, recognizing their sacrifices and dedication to our nation.
Trump administration plans to cut 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, according to internal memo
Read full article: Trump administration plans to cut 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, according to internal memoThe Department of Veterans Affairs is planning an “aggressive” reorganization that includes cutting 80,000 jobs from the sprawling agency that provides health care for millions of veterans.
‘She’s just incredible:’ 3-year-old therapy dog brings joy to all those around her
Read full article: ‘She’s just incredible:’ 3-year-old therapy dog brings joy to all those around her“Over at the VA, there’s one that she’s just totally bonded with over the last couple of weeks, she’ll just cuddle with him,” Samantha Baruah, Freyja’s handler and owner, told News 6. “You know, the other veterans joke that he is the tough guy of the group and really doesn’t smile until Freya is around.”
VA pauses billions in cuts lauded by Musk as lawmakers and veterans decry loss of critical care
Read full article: VA pauses billions in cuts lauded by Musk as lawmakers and veterans decry loss of critical careThe Department of Veterans Affairs has temporarily suspended billions in contract cuts after an uproar that critical veterans health services were harmed, lawmakers and veterans service organizations said Wednesday.
How service dogs are improving veterans' lives and mental health
Read full article: How service dogs are improving veterans' lives and mental healthT.D. Hood is a veteran who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after serving for 5 years in a combat-related environment. With the help of his therapist and K9s for Warriors, Hood was able to find a forever friend in his service dog, Cooper. He shares his story.
Veterans question future of benefits amid VA staff reductions
Read full article: Veterans question future of benefits amid VA staff reductionsMore than 1,000 Veterans Affairs employees have been let go after the Trump administration signed an executive order telling agencies to prepare for large-scale reductions, raising concerns among veterans about the future of their benefits.
VA nurses are in short supply. Unions say Trump's deferred resignation plan could make things worse
Read full article: VA nurses are in short supply. Unions say Trump's deferred resignation plan could make things worseNurses caring for military veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs comprise the largest group of federal employees.
Ancestry test leads to reunion between US veteran, son after 72 years
Read full article: Ancestry test leads to reunion between US veteran, son after 72 yearsAbout 72 years ago, Joseph LaPointe returned to the United States after a stint in Germany, where he had been stationed as a member of the U.S. military. But a part of him stayed behind. Fast forward to Friday night. LaPointe is ending the month of January by starting a new chapter — with a son he has not seen in seven decades.
World War II veteran gets Magic Kingdom Flag Retreat honor for 100th birthday
Read full article: World War II veteran gets Magic Kingdom Flag Retreat honor for 100th birthdayNot only was a recent Flag Retreat an honor for U.S. Army Col. William “Bill” Connelly, it added a little extra magic to his 100th birthday.
‘An honest life:’ Orlando World War II veteran turns 100, shares his story
Read full article: ‘An honest life:’ Orlando World War II veteran turns 100, shares his storyArmy Veteran Harold B. Gross, a World War II veteran, marked his 100th birthday in an event filled with gratitude, recognition, and reflection.
Fireman Rob joins Trooper Steve on Patrol
Read full article: Fireman Rob joins Trooper Steve on PatrolFireman Rob is a true American hero, known for his incredible journey of resilience, dedication and service. An Air Force veteran and career firefighter, Rob supported search and recovery efforts after the 9/11 tragedy and has since made it his mission to inspire others to “live your passion.”
VA announces GI Bill benefits expansion for veterans who served multiple periods
Read full article: VA announces GI Bill benefits expansion for veterans who served multiple periodsVeterans who served multiple periods of military service, like those who reenlisted, are now eligible for up to an additional 12 months of education benefits.
3 ways a government shutdown could affect Central Florida
Read full article: 3 ways a government shutdown could affect Central FloridaIf the government shuts down, essential services remain in place, but others will be stopped or delayed. Here are some ways a government shutdown could affect people living in Central Florida.
Free parking for disabled veterans: Orlando International Airport among those offering discounts
Read full article: Free parking for disabled veterans: Orlando International Airport among those offering discountsNavigating airport logistics can be a daunting task, especially for disabled veterans who may face unique challenges while traveling.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, this Disney World tradition honors veterans every day
Read full article: Amidst the hustle and bustle, this Disney World tradition honors veterans every dayAt 5 o'clock nightly, just within the park entrance, guests and cast members stand at attention for one of Disney’s longest traditions when the American flag is lowered, folded into a triangle, and then given to a veteran or the family of a veteran.
‘Focus on the music:’ Orlando veteran uses musical talent to cope with PTSD, help others
Read full article: ‘Focus on the music:’ Orlando veteran uses musical talent to cope with PTSD, help othersA Central Florida veteran is using his self-taught piano skills to not only heal himself but help heal others who are facing their own challenges.
Orlando group helps getting service dogs trained for veterans
Read full article: Orlando group helps getting service dogs trained for veteransTuesday on Breakfast with Bridgett, local service dog training group, Dog Training Elite Orlando, shared information on how service dog training is helping transform lives for many, including our local veterans.
Gratitude, respect, and remembrance: Lake Highland Prep hosts annual Veterans Day salute
Read full article: Gratitude, respect, and remembrance: Lake Highland Prep hosts annual Veterans Day saluteOver 400 Lake Highland first through 12th-grade students in the performing arts have worked diligently since the beginning of the school year to prepare for their annual performance to honor our courageous veterans.
Army veteran, police officer partner to fight crime in Ocala’s toughest community
Read full article: Army veteran, police officer partner to fight crime in Ocala’s toughest communityThey're an unlikely team: a recently-hired police officer from Tanzania and an Army veteran born and raised in Ocala tackling crime together in one of the city's roughest spots - Berkeley Pointe apartments.
VA announces disaster assistance, resources for veterans affected by Hurricane Milton
Read full article: VA announces disaster assistance, resources for veterans affected by Hurricane MiltonThe United States Department of Veterans Affairs announced several resources for veterans who were impacted by Hurricane Milton.
Trooper Steve on Patrol: Retired US Army Maj. Rob Fess on using music therapy for PTSD
Read full article: Trooper Steve on Patrol: Retired US Army Maj. Rob Fess on using music therapy for PTSDRob Fess, a retired U.S. Army major who served in Iraq from 2007-08 and Afghanistan from 2011-12, has found a powerful way to cope with the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.
Healing through sports: Organization uses adaptive sports challenges to help disabled veterans
Read full article: Healing through sports: Organization uses adaptive sports challenges to help disabled veteransFor many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life can be a challenge. And for those with physical injuries or PTSD, it can be even more difficult.
City of Orlando pays tribute to prisoners of war through POW/MIA recognition ceremony
Read full article: City of Orlando pays tribute to prisoners of war through POW/MIA recognition ceremonyMayor Buddy Dyer, along with his Veterans Advisory Council, honored U.S. military prisoners of war and those still missing as part of POW/MIA Day.
News 6 receives honors for coverage of Purple Heart national convention
Read full article: News 6 receives honors for coverage of Purple Heart national conventionSeveral members of the News 6 team were honored this week by the Military Order of the Purple Heart for their coverage of the organization's national convention in July.
Tunnels to Towers draws hundreds to Altamonte Springs 5K honoring 9/11 first responders
Read full article: Tunnels to Towers draws hundreds to Altamonte Springs 5K honoring 9/11 first respondersTunnel to Towers held its annual 5K in Altamonte Springs as a way to honor and remember the legacy of those who lost their lives responding to the tragedies on 9/11.
Vietnam veteran talks revisiting nation, cycling 390 miles on Trooper Steve on Patrol
Read full article: Vietnam veteran talks revisiting nation, cycling 390 miles on Trooper Steve on PatrolServing in the Vietnam War at just 22 years old, Marc Gimbel, now 77, has gone back. Marc recently completed 390 miles in two weeks biking through Vietnam and reliving his past with a new sense of humanity.
Veterans trade volunteer hours for college education at this Orlando nonprofit
Read full article: Veterans trade volunteer hours for college education at this Orlando nonprofitThe nonprofit gives veterans, who have either exhausted or want to save their VA Educational Benefits, an opportunity to have their college tuition paid for in exchange for volunteering.
Veteran-crafted & Barstool president approved: Pizza shop to open in Ocoee
Read full article: Veteran-crafted & Barstool president approved: Pizza shop to open in OcoeeAward-winning Key Lime pie, a New York WaterMaker and Boar’s Head meat are some of the key ingredients that make Coast to Coast Pizza Company successful.
CareerSource Central Florida helps veterans transition to civilian life and find employment
Read full article: CareerSource Central Florida helps veterans transition to civilian life and find employmentNational Hire a Veteran Day, observed annually on July 25, serves as a poignant reminder to employers nationwide to prioritize hiring individuals who have bravely served our country.
Father reflects on 15 years caring for veteran son injured in combat
Read full article: Father reflects on 15 years caring for veteran son injured in combatA U.S. Army Ranger veteran who was injured in combat back in 2009 is sharing his story alongside his father, who has been his caregiver for the last 15 years.
Purple Heart recipients visit Orlando. Here’s why nation’s bravest are in town
Read full article: Purple Heart recipients visit Orlando. Here’s why nation’s bravest are in townHundreds of our nation’s bravest men and women are in town for the Military Order of the Purple Heart’s 91st Annual Conference.
Purple Heart recipient joins Trooper Steve on Patrol
Read full article: Purple Heart recipient joins Trooper Steve on PatrolThe Military Order of the Purple Heart does a lot to support veterans with Purple Hearts, including helping pay rents, help find housing, jobs, support, offering scholarships to Purple Heart recipients and their families.
‘Something magical that happens:’ The equine-assisted therapy program in Osceola helping veterans
Read full article: ‘Something magical that happens:’ The equine-assisted therapy program in Osceola helping veteransThe 12-week program helps veterans diagnosed with PTSD reconnect to civilian life and rediscover a sense of purpose.
‘Giving back what I was given:’ Tuskegee Airman teaches teens about legacy, piloting
Read full article: ‘Giving back what I was given:’ Tuskegee Airman teaches teens about legacy, pilotingStudents who are part of a summer enrichment program are getting hands-on experience with emerging technologies while also learning lessons about the past.
Author, former Navy sub commander ‘Navy Bob’ carried ‘Nuclear Football’ for President George W. Bush
Read full article: Author, former Navy sub commander ‘Navy Bob’ carried ‘Nuclear Football’ for President George W. BushRobert Ronscka spent 28 years in the Navy leading men and women while being in charge of 10 Los Angeles class nuclear submarines, but he’s on a new mission as a speaker and author.
Orlando Army veteran fights for LGBTQ rights through drag performance
Read full article: Orlando Army veteran fights for LGBTQ rights through drag performanceLake Eola is where the pride parade ends and downtown is home to many LGBTQ+ organizations.Darcel Stevens is an advocate for the gay community, a veteran, and a performer.
This lakefront home will soon provide hope for homeless women veterans
Read full article: This lakefront home will soon provide hope for homeless women veteransThe 4,000-square-foot home is the latest project being built by Villagers For Veterans. Ashley’s House will be a transition home for women veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Male breast cancer among 3 new types added by VA to list of presumptive service connections
Read full article: Male breast cancer among 3 new types added by VA to list of presumptive service connectionsThe U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is including three new cancer types to the list of presumed service-connected disabilities due to military environmental exposure.
This Publix in Central Florida has a cemetery in its parking lot. Here’s why
Read full article: This Publix in Central Florida has a cemetery in its parking lot. Here’s whyFlorida’s ever-popular grocery chain has plenty of interesting features, though one location in particular has an odd sight in store for visitors.
Members of Congress commemorate D-Day with their own parachute jump over Normandy
Read full article: Members of Congress commemorate D-Day with their own parachute jump over NormandyA contingent of U.S. lawmakers from the House of Representatives has made a commemorative parachute jump at Normandy marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
‘Just glad to get up to age 100:’ Seminole County World War II vet honored with Quilt of Valor
Read full article: ‘Just glad to get up to age 100:’ Seminole County World War II vet honored with Quilt of ValorIt’s a special honor for a special guy during a special time. Peter Durante is celebrating his 100th birthday this week.
Love of history, appetite to learn drives Marine Corps veteran to earn PhD, start own business
Read full article: Love of history, appetite to learn drives Marine Corps veteran to earn PhD, start own businessJodie Sweezey discovered military history in her teens, but waited until after she graduated college to join the military, a decision partly shaped by her father who served in Vietnam.
French children hail D-Day veterans as heroes as they arrive in Normandy for anniversary events
Read full article: French children hail D-Day veterans as heroes as they arrive in Normandy for anniversary eventsFrench schoolchildren have greeted dozens of U.S. World War II veterans with a big poster saying ‘’thank you'' as they arrived on Monday in Normandy.
US seeking ‘citizen archivists’ to help transcribe American Revolution pension records
Read full article: US seeking ‘citizen archivists’ to help transcribe American Revolution pension recordsThe National Park Service and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) are collaborating on a project to transcribe the pension records of more than 80,000 of America’s first veterans and their widows.
'All-American hero:' Fallen veterans honored on Memorial Day at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery
Read full article: 'All-American hero:' Fallen veterans honored on Memorial Day at Cape Canaveral National CemeteryCape Canaveral National Cemetery hosted its annual Memorial Day ceremony Monday honoring local veterans and their families who attended the somber event.
Man on mission to share World War II hero stories visits 100-year-old Central Florida veteran
Read full article: Man on mission to share World War II hero stories visits 100-year-old Central Florida veteranRishi Sharma runs a non-profit and YouTube channel called “Remember World War II with Rishi Sharma”
Seminole County Supervisor of Elections launching new initiative to honor veterans
Read full article: Seminole County Supervisor of Elections launching new initiative to honor veteransThe supervisor of elections in Seminole County is launching an initiative to honor those who have served in the military.
This Army vet liked to fix cars as a hobby. Now he’s helping low-income families move forward
Read full article: This Army vet liked to fix cars as a hobby. Now he’s helping low-income families move forwardWe rely on our cars for just about everything. Most of us need one to get to work, the grocery store, and our medical appointments. For those living paycheck to paycheck, a costly repair can be a disaster. This week’s Getting Results Award winner is donating his time to those who can least afford an unexpected breakdown.
‘Basic geometry:’ How this Central Florida Army veteran became a self-taught origami artist
Read full article: ‘Basic geometry:’ How this Central Florida Army veteran became a self-taught origami artistRodriquez Benjamin, 40, spent 6 years in the U.S. Army, including two deployments in Iraq – the first for 15 months and the second for 14 months.
Volusia County Fairgrounds hosting event to help veterans. Here’s what you need to know
Read full article: Volusia County Fairgrounds hosting event to help veterans. Here’s what you need to knowVolusia County is holding an event this weekend to help veterans in need. The Veterans Stand Down is Friday and Saturday at the Volusia County Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Cold case solved in 1968 killing of World War II veteran in Florida
Read full article: Cold case solved in 1968 killing of World War II veteran in FloridaHiram "Ross’" Grayam, a decorated World War II veteran who saw action at the Battle of the Bulge, was shot dead in Indian River County in April 1968.
Stars and Stripes flying again at Titusville veterans center where man stole US flag
Read full article: Stars and Stripes flying again at Titusville veterans center where man stole US flagThe U.S. flag is flying once again in front of the Disabled American Veterans chapter in Titusville where a man stole a flag last week.
New grill gifted to Titusville veterans center after police arrest alleged vandal, flag thief
Read full article: New grill gifted to Titusville veterans center after police arrest alleged vandal, flag thiefA Mims man accused of stealing the U.S. flag and damaging a grill at the Disabled American Veterans chapter in Titusville earlier this week was arrested Friday, according to police.
Central Florida Navy veteran searches world’s waters to recover remains of lost service members
Read full article: Central Florida Navy veteran searches world’s waters to recover remains of lost service membersJohn Marsack isn’t in the military anymore, but this U.S. Navy veteran continues to serve his country in a heroic way.
Lou Conter, last survivor of USS Arizona from Pearl Harbor attack, dies at 102
Read full article: Lou Conter, last survivor of USS Arizona from Pearl Harbor attack, dies at 102Lou Conter, the last living survivor of the USS Arizona battleship that exploded and sank during the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, has died.
Winter Park hosts Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day
Read full article: Winter Park hosts Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration DayOn Thursday evening inside the Winter Park Library, people came together to recognize Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day. The state will officially recognize the day next year on the fourth Thursday of March.
From major to mogul: How one woman took lessons from the Army to build her business
Read full article: From major to mogul: How one woman took lessons from the Army to build her businessSonja Stribling talks about her 21-year military career, transforming her life and helping thousands of women do the same.
UCF organization provides space to serve women veterans on campus
Read full article: UCF organization provides space to serve women veterans on campusFounded by senior business management major Alexandria Marcellus, the Women Veterans Association is dedicated to empowering female veterans and fostering a supportive network on campus.