TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) are highlighting a number of policies and initiatives that are providing critical support to the state’s 1.5 million Veterans, their families and survivors. FDVA is a 1,500-member constitutionally created State Veterans’ Affairs department responsible for serving the nation’s… READ MORE »
Each year more than 6,000 U.S. Veterans take their own lives, including more than 500 here in Florida. Veterans are dying by suicide at a rate nearly 1.5 times higher that of their civilian counterparts. This tragedy covers all age groups and demographics. It is time to take a new… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a proclamation honoring our state’s Purple Heart recipients, many of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the freedoms we hold so dear. The Florida Legislature unanimously passed legislation in 2012 establishing Aug. 7 as Florida Purple Heart Day to recognize recipients of… READ MORE »
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – First Lady Casey DeSantis announced July 14 an expanded Hope for Healing website that makes it easier for Floridians to access help for mental health and substance abuse. The new site is an aggregator of federal, state, local, private sector, faith-based and non-profit mental health resources,… READ MORE »
Cabinet Members Unanimously Approve TALLAHASSEE – Retired Marine Corps Major General James S. “Hammer” Hartsell was appointed Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs by Gov. Ron DeSantis during the May 4, 2021 Cabinet Meeting. Florida’s three Cabinet Officers unanimously approved the appointment. “We appreciate you and thank… READ MORE »
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities in Florida can now provide COVID-19 vaccines to all Veterans, regardless of discharge, their spouses and adult caregivers at no cost. Check out their websites or give them a call to learn how you can get the COVID-19 vaccine. Bay Pines VA Healthcare… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual Vietnam War Veterans Day in Florida Proclamation. One out of every three veterans in Florida is a Vietnam-era veteran. March 29 is Vietnam War Veterans Day in Florida.… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis has directed the Florida Department of Health and Florida Division of Emergency Management to coordinate with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs to identify veterans of World War II and the Korean War who are unable to travel to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The Governor will continue to… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – The Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19, is impacting many Floridians as well as Florida’s veterans, active duty military members and their families. As many businesses and organizations are being forced to close their doors, our veterans are unable to work and provide an income to support their families. The Florida… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — In the state’s ongoing efforts to provide transparency and clarity regarding COVID-19, the Florida Department of Health announced March 16 the launch of a new COVID-19 Case Dashboard. To keep Florida residents and visitors safe, informed and aware about the status of the virus, this dashboard will be updated twice… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) has announced additional steps to combat the spread of COVID-19 in the state of Florida. • Effective March 11, 2020, FDVA is restricting visitor access to its State Veterans’ Nursing Homes and Domiciliary until further notice, with the exception of essential… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Sixteen Florida veterans were inducted March 9 into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame during ceremonies at the Capitol. FDVA Executive Director Danny Burgess hosted the ceremony honoring the Class of 2019, and was joined by Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. “Congratulations to the Florida Veterans’ Hall… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Health has announced there are two presumptive positive cases of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Florida. Both individuals remain in isolation at this time. Despite these cases in Florida, the overall immediate threat to the public remains low.… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida College System Council of Presidents (COP) are continuously elevating methods to advance the educational and workforce experience for veterans and active duty military members and their families. … READ MORE »
PENSACOLA, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Feb. 19 the unveiling of the “Salute Our Soldiers” Military Loan Program (SOS) that will be offered to veterans and active duty military personnel throughout the state. The announcement was made following a roundtable to discuss ongoing issues and initiatives that involve Florida’s… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Executive Director Danny Burgess provided the following statement regarding Gov. Ron DeSantis’ State of the State Address today. “Florida is well-situated as a national champion in supporting our 1.5 million veterans and their families. With the nation’s third largest veterans’ population, we offer… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the designation of Florida’s 2020 Census Statewide Complete Count Committee. The United States Census will be conducted from March to June 2020 and Florida’s Complete Count Committee will coordinate with the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure Floridians are accurately reflected in the federal count.… READ MORE »
The Defense Department has announced expanded Commissary, Military Service Exchange and MWR access Jan. 1 and established a standard for physical access to military installations. Veterans who are eligible and want to take advantage of in-person benefits must have a Veterans Health Identification Card, or VHIC. Primary Family Caregivers must… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis and officials from the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) are pointing to a string of policies and initiatives that are providing critical support to the state’s 1.5 million veterans. Gov. Ron DeSantis said: “It’s been a fast-paced and meaningful first year. As a… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual Battle of the Bulge Day in Florida Proclamation. Dec. 16, 2019 marks the 75th anniversary of the last major German offensive on the western front during World War II. The battle, which lasted until Jan. 25, 1945, resulted in an Allied… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Proclamation. Dec. 7, 2019 marks the 78th anniversary of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to America’s entry into World War II. The flags of the United States and State of Florida will be flown… READ MORE »
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis joined the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today for the groundbreaking ceremony of a Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) located in St. Augustine. The Governor was joined by Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Executive Director Danny Burgess, Congressman John Rutherford as well as… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Executive Director Danny Burgess issued the following statement today on Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Bolder, Brighter, Better Future budget: “As a former Naval officer, Governor DeSantis has proven to be a lifelong champion of veterans issues, both as a congressman and now as Florida’s… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a new partnership Nov. 8 to bolster ongoing efforts to protect Florida veterans and service members. The partnership between the Florida Attorney General’s Military and Veteran Assistance Program and Bay Area Legal Services’ Florida Veterans Legal Helpline will allow for a more rapid… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — In honor of Veterans Day, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the launch of a new military-friendly travel section on VISIT FLORIDA’s website, www.visitflorida.com/military. The section is a consolidated source of Florida travel information for service members, veterans, and their families. The site includes information about discounts and experiences available to… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual Veterans Day in Florida Proclamation. The State of Florida is recognized as one of the most military and veteran-friendly states in the nation, with more than 1.5 million veterans living in the Sunshine State. Nov. 11, 2019 is Veterans Day.… READ MORE »
TAMPA – The State of Florida is proud and honored to host the National Medal of Honor Society Convention in Tampa, Oct. 22-27. On behalf of the men and women of FDVA, welcome to the Sunshine State and enjoy your visit. Did you know? Florida’s state veterans’ homes are named… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Ron DeSantis announced today three Local Workforce Development Boards are being awarded Veterans’ Performance Incentive Awards for their diligent work of providing employment and training opportunities to thousands of veterans. The three Local Workforce Development Boards being recognized for this achievement are CareerSource Central Florida, CareerSource Flagler… READ MORE »
GAINESVILLE/OCALA, Fla. — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded three leases for Community Based Outpatient Clinics located in Gainesville and Ocala. The major leases were authorized Sept. 30, 2019 under the VA Choice and Quality Employment Act of 2017 (“Choice 2.0”) and will expand and enhance health care… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a proclamation commemorating Sept. 29, 2019 as Gold Star Family Day in Florida. Florida owes a lasting debt of gratitude to those who gave their lives in service to secure the blessings of liberty. A new Honor and Remember Flag is flown on… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual POW/MIA Recognition Day in Florida proclamation. The observance is Sept. 20, 2019. The POW/MIA flag is flown daily over the Florida Capitol, rest areas along Florida’s interstate highways, and at Florida’s State Parks to honor POW/MIAs and their service. There are… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the 2019 Patriot Day Proclamation. The flags of the United States and State of Florida will be flown from sunrise to sunset at half-staff to commemorate the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Patriot Day is Sept. 11. … READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced the selection of Henry “Hank” James Thomas to the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame. Thomas, of Jacksonville, served in the U.S. Army from 1963-1966 where he earned six combat medals, including the Purple Heart. He was active in the civil rights movement… READ MORE »
A disturbing number of Veterans take their own lives in the U.S. On average, approximately 7,300 Veterans die from suicide each year. Despite significant efforts and billions of dollars invested by the state and federal governments across the nation, suicide rates among Veterans rose 26 percent from 2005 to 2016.… READ MORE »
State Veterans’ Homes Program Update: The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) operates six skilled nursing facilities and one assisted living facility. All state veterans’ homes are currently operational and have resumed normal operations. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Update: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates a number… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – With Hurricane Dorian approaching Florida for a potential Monday landfall, the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs is gearing up its social media messaging regarding potential delays and closures of veteran-related facilities. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will also provide similar messaging. Follow us for updates impacting Florida’s… READ MORE »
TAMPA – Gov. Ron DeSantis joined the Cohen Veterans Network Aug. 26, to celebrate the opening of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Aspire Health Partners. Steven Cohen launched Cohen Veterans Network in 2016 along with the first four Military Family Clinics. “I appreciate the great work the… READ MORE »
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is having their 2019 National Convention in Orlando, which begins this weekend. Welcome to the Sunshine State and enjoy your stay.… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the annual Korean War Armistice Day Proclamation, honoring the state’s Korean War veterans and commemorating the 66th anniversary of the end of the war. More than 124,000 Korean War veterans currently reside in Florida. More than 34,000 Americans were killed in action during the… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a proclamation observing July 25, 2019 as Hire a Veteran Day in Florida.… READ MORE »
ORLANDO – VFW delegates from around the nation are converging in Orlando for the 120th Veterans of Foreigh Wars (VFW) National Convention, which begins this weekend. Welcome to the Sunshine State and enjoy your stay.… READ MORE »
Florida Leads Nation in Earning National Distinction for Achievements in Delivering Quality Care Courtesy of the Florida Health Care Association TALLAHASSEE – Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) is pleased to recognize 17 skilled nursing centers and two assisted living facility members across Florida which earned a 2019 Silver – Achievement… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief Bob Asztalos has been appointed chairman of the Florida Veterans Foundation by Danny Burgess, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Former Chairman Mike Mason has been named Chairman Emeritus. “Mike Mason set the example of hard work and unsurpassed excellence… READ MORE »
TAMPA, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis signed CS/CS/HB 501: Alternative Treatment Options for Veterans and CS/CS/HB 427: Honor and Remember Flag, at the University of South Florida’s Office of Veteran Success, June 26. “Here in Florida, we take great pride in being the most veteran-friendly state in the nation and… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – On its 30th anniversary, the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs continues to be the premier point of entry for Florida veterans to access earned services, benefits and support. The agency’s budget resulting from the recently concluded 2019 Florida Legislative Session was signed into law today by Gov. Ron… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a proclamation honoring Korean War veterans as part of Korean War Remembrance Day in Florida. The proclamation commemorates the 69th anniversary of North Korea’s invasion of South Korea on June 25, 1950. More than 294,000 Floridians wore the uniform of the Armed Forces… READ MORE »
The new community based outpatient clinic broke ground in Zephyrhills, Florida Courtesy of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – Veterans in East Pasco County, Florida will soon have access to a brand new 14,000 square foot VA clinic, replacing the existing 4,500 square foot community based… READ MORE »
Courtesy of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) launched its new and improved Veterans Community Care Program on June 6, 2019, implementing portions of the VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act of 2018 (MISSION Act), which… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a proclamation commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the D-Day landings. June 6, 2019 marks the anniversary of the landings and the Battle of Normandy, as well as the beginning of the end of World War II in Europe. An estimated 156,000 American, British… READ MORE »
Increasing Veterans’ access to health care WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the one-year anniversary of President Trump’s signing of the VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks (MISSION) Act of 2018 approaches, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is making significant strides in implementing major improvements to community care… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame Council is accepting nominations for the next class of inductees into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame. The nomination period for the Class of 2019 is open until May 31, 2019. Anyone is permitted to nominate a military veteran. The Florida Legislature… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis joined American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) CEO Jo Ann Jenkins to announce that Florida has been designated an Age-Friendly State, making Florida the fourth state in the nation to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. They were joined during the April… READ MORE »
EGLIN AFB, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced today the Governor’s Initiative on Lawyers Assisting Warriors (GI LAW), an initiative to leverage the talent of Florida’s leading law firms to provide pro bono services to military members. Joined by Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Executive Director Danny Burgess, Enterprise Florida… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – FDVA Executive Director Danny Burgess released a letter today to Florida’s Congressional Delegation, supporting the DeSantis Administration’s efforts to bring the newly created United States Space Command to Florida. “Bringing USSPACECOM to the Sunshine State is a logical choice and has many advantages,” said Burgess. “With so many… READ MORE »
TALLAHASSEE – Retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James S. “Hammer” Hartsell has been named Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs by FDVA Executive Director Danny Burgess. The agency operates a network of seven state veterans’ homes and provides statewide outreach to connect Florida’s more than 1.5… READ MORE »