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Senator Victor “Vic” M. Torres, Jr., is of Puerto Rican descent and was born and raised in New York City. His lifetime of service began when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduating from Harren High School in 1966. Senator Victor Torres United States Marine Corps FVF Current Board Member, Sergeant Senator Victor “Vic” M. Torres, Jr., is of Puerto Rican descent and was born and raised in New York City. His lifetime of service began when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduating from Harren High School in 1966. He joined as the Vietnam War was raging. During his four-year enlistment, Senator Torres was stationed in Okinawa Japan, rose to Sergeant, and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal. In 2019 Senator Torres wrote: “It was not until I served in the Marine Corps, though, that I fully understood what makes America truly great.” He went on, “The Marine Corps taught me, and exemplified, that America stands up for the oppressed. We are the guiding light for freedom lovers across the globe to look toward in times of despair. Above all, we defend the defenseless. I carried these values with me as I continued my career of service as a member of law enforcement. It was in this job that I kept my neighbors safe, protecting back at home all we hold dear. I carried with me to the Florida House and subsequently to the Senate these same sacred values.” Once completing his service in the Marine Corps, he ensured safety and order in his community as a police officer for the New York City Transit Police. After twenty years, Senator Torres retired from the New York City Transit Police as 2nd Grade Detective. In 1993, Senator Torres relocated his family to Florida and continued his community service as a volunteer and leader for several community organizations, the labor movement, and grassroots efforts. He has established a strong reputation as a committed political activist and an effective leader. In 2012, Vic Torres was elected as a State Representative for Florida House District 48 in Orange County; and for the 2014-2016 legislative cycle, he was tapped to be the Democratic Deputy Whip. He has served on numerous Senate committees, including the Military and Veterans Affairs and Space Committee. Senator Torres has been married to Carmen L. Torres for over twenty-five years. Carmen is also a committed community leader and volunteer. She is a past member of the Executive Board of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), Past Vice-Chair of the DNC Southern Caucus, and past Florida Elector for President Barack Obama. Vic and Carmen are the proud parents of five children and eleven grandchildren. << Back to Veteran Legislators

The license plate has reached its required voucher sales, and are now available for purchase at your local DMV. Floridians who purchased presale vouchers for the specialty plate are able to redeem them at their local tax collector office or license plate agency, and those who wish to purchase the new plate are advised to contact their local office prior to visiting to ensure stock is available. Order Your Gadsden Flag License Plate The license plate has reached its required voucher sales, and are now available for purchase at your local DMV. Floridians who purchased presale vouchers for the specialty plate are able to redeem them at their local tax collector office or license plate agency, and those who wish to purchase the new plate are advised to contact their local office prior to visiting to ensure stock is available. Follow the link below to be redirected to The Florida Dept. of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles Speciality License Plate portal. CLICK HERE Plate sales go to supporting Veterans in need. The license plate has reached its required voucher sales limit and is now in stock near you. You will receive a letter from FLHSMV with redemption instructions once the license plate ships to tax collector locations. Specialty license plates cost a set fee (annually) above the standard Florida license plate. The fees vary based on the type of license plate. These additional funds go to support the cause for which the specialty license plate was designed. There are no additional fees when paying by eCheck. When paying with debit or credit card, a service fee will apply. An agent will contact you within three business days to complete your purchase . Please be prepared to make payment when our agent contacts you. FLORIDA HIGHWAY SAFETY & MOTOR VEHICLE LOCATIONS

Representative Keith Truenow is the founder of Lake Jem Farms based in Mount Dora, in addition to being a farmer and rancher who focuses on producing sod sold throughout the State of Florida. Representative Keith Truenow United States Air Force Airman Representative Keith Truenow is the founder of Lake Jem Farms based in Mount Dora, in addition to being a farmer and rancher who focuses on producing sod sold throughout the State of Florida. Following graduation from high school, Keith, at 17 and with parental consent, enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served his country from 1987 until honorably discharged in 1991. Following his military service, he returned home to Lake County and his agricultural roots. After being well-schooled in agri-business, he later founded Lake Jem Farms, based in Mount Dora. He is a farmer and rancher who focuses on producing sod sold throughout Florida. Rep Truenow serves on several local and statewide boards, including; Turfgrass Producers of Florida, Lake County Farm Bureau, and the Lake County Fair Association. He also serves on the Harris Chain of Lakes Restoration Council, appointed by Governor Rick Scott. He is an entrepreneur in every sense of the word. As a longtime businessman and resident of the district, he clearly understands the challenges that constituents face and will take with him to Tallahassee a commonsense approach to problem-solving. Rep Truenow reflected on his military service, “I bring a devotion to duty that was instilled in me first by my parents and then by the United States Air Force. Regarding my value to the legislative process, at a time when Florida’s economy and natural resources are at a critical stage. I believe my background will prove to be invaluable.” Keith’s devotion to his wife of twenty years and their two sons serves as the foundation for his commitment to putting Florida families first. << Back to Veteran Legislators

The Florida Veterans Foundation is taking a crucial step forward in raising awareness for Veteran Suicide Prevention in five rural counties: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Bay, Walton, and Okaloosa. As part of the Governor's Challenge Suicide Prevention Campaign, the foundation has initiated a targeted mail-out to spread vital information and resources to veterans residing in these areas. Joining Forces to Prevent Veteran Suicide in Rural Florida Counties The Florida Veterans Foundation is taking a crucial step forward in raising awareness for Veteran Suicide Prevention in five rural counties: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Bay, Walton, and Okaloosa. As part of the Governor's Challenge Suicide Prevention Campaign, the foundation has initiated a targeted mail-out to spread vital information and resources to veterans residing in these areas. By reaching out directly to these communities, the mail-out aims to raise awareness, provide support, and ultimately save lives. Together, let's join forces to combat veteran suicide and ensure that no hero is left behind. The mail-out is designed to reach veterans residing in these rural communities, ensuring they have access to the necessary information, tools, and assistance they need. By delivering comprehensive resources, including helpline numbers, counseling services, and local support groups, the Florida Veterans Foundation aims to create a safety net of support for those facing mental health challenges. The significance of targeting rural areas should not be understated. Often, these communities face unique barriers, such as limited access to healthcare services and fewer available mental health resources. By directly engaging veterans in these counties, the foundation hopes to bridge these gaps and ensure that no veteran is left without the help they deserve. The mail-out campaign is an opportunity to highlight the importance of early intervention, de-stigmatize seeking help, and promote support within the veteran community. By raising awareness and encouraging open conversations about mental health, the Florida Veterans Foundation hopes to foster an environment where veterans feel comfortable seeking assistance when needed. This initiative is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Florida Veterans Foundation to protect and support those who have bravely served our country. By amplifying the Governor's Challenge Suicide Prevention Campaign, the foundation is actively working towards reducing veteran suicide rates and improving the overall well-being of veterans in these rural Florida counties. The Florida Veterans Foundation's mail-out campaign serves as a beacon of hope, reaching out to veterans in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Bay, Walton, and Okaloosa counties to let them know they are not alone. It is a powerful reminder that as a community, we stand together, ready to provide the support, resources, and understanding needed to prevent veteran suicide. Let's come together and ensure that every veteran in these rural counties receives the care and assistance they deserve.

Veterans know that good chow makes any mission better. If you are a veteran or family member of a veteran, we are looking for you to volunteer in our Servers4Heroes Program where you get to assist in preparation or serve meals to the heroes who reside in Florida’s Veterans Nursing Homes. The program is simple. Volunteers will complete an initial screening and training before signing up for meal shifts, which can be either breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Veterans know that good chow makes any mission better. If you are a veteran or family member of a veteran, we are looking for you to volunteer in our Servers4Heroes Program where you get to assist in preparation or serve meals to the heroes who reside in Florida’s Veterans Nursing Homes. The program is simple. Volunteers will complete an initial screening and training before signing up for meal shifts, which can be either breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Sign up for as many or as few shifts as you would like. Assistance is especially needed on weekends. Volunteer servers will work under the direct supervision of our dietary staff. Jobs you can participate in are to: prepare pre-planned meals, portion and place meals on carts, deliver them to our resident’s dining areas or their rooms and assist residents with eating their meals. To join, fill out an application for the Servers4Heroes Program found on the Florida Veterans Foundation website at helpflvets.org. You will then need to: Pass a criminal background check and one-time drug test; Complete a one-day orientation at the nursing home; Receive training from the dietary staff; and Servers who wish to feed residents must complete a 12 hour Feeding Assistant program All training will be provided by the nursing home staff at no cost to you. Once you complete the training you can help bring joy into the lives of our heroes. Food Preparer Food Delivery Food Server Meal Assistant Kitchen Duty Volunteer Application First name Last name Address Preferred State Nursing Home Location Branch of Service Phone Number Email Do you currently possess a Active Florida Food Handler license? No Yes Do you have prior experience as a food handler/server in a public restaurant, hotel or hospital? No Yes If so, please provide a copy of your certificate and your certificate number: The State of Florida requires a criminal background check for volunteer positions and can use the results to determine your acceptance and placement. All volunteers must complete orientation and training to participate in the Servers4Heroes Program. Servers who wish to feed residents must complete a 12 hour Feeding Assistant program. What is your desired positon? Food Prep Server Feeder Kitchen Duties I declare that the info I’ve provided is accurate & complete Please include your desired hours (open 7 days a week, breakfast, lunch, and dinner) Submit Thanks for submitting!

Visit our events page to get a look at veteran events across the state. Calendar of Events October 2025 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

This once in a lifetime opportunity will honor a Veteran’s legacy in the new documentary A State at War: Florida During WWII, which will be cherished forever. Feature a Veteran in an Upcoming PBS Film This once in a lifetime opportunity will honor a Veteran’s legacy in the new documentary A State at War: Florida During WWII, which will be cherished forever. 3 Donation Levels – your Veteran’s name in the film credits – your Veteran’s name in the film credits with rank, and branch of service or more – your Veteran’s name and photo in the film credits with their name, rank, branch, and years of service Donate Today, and we will include your Veteran’s Legacy in this historical and memorable film, and on the Florida Veterans Foundation Memorial webpage. Millions of people around the world will view the program on PBS stations and other venues in the years to come. Memorial recognition in the film is limited. Honor your Veteran’s legacy through Your donation and help to support Veterans in need through a variety of programs and services provided by the Florida Veterans Foundation. The film is scheduled to be released on Veterans Day 2023 on PBS. $500 $1000 $2000 Preserve Your Veteran’s Legacy In This Historical Film Today 3 Donation Levels – your Veteran’s name in the film credits – your Veteran’s name in the film credits with rank, and branch of service or more – your Veteran’s name and photo in the film credits with their name, rank, branch, and years of service Note: Only a $2000 or more donation is granted a photo submission $500 $1000 $2000 Memorial Day Video Donation Form First name Last name Email Rank Service Organization Enter the amount you wish to pay: $ Donate Thank you for helping us make a difference! Memorial Video Photo Upload If you are donating a total of $2000 or more please upload your photo submission here:

Representative John Snyder is a Martin County native with deep roots in the community and a public service passion. He grew up in Stuart and graduated from Hobe Sound Christian Academy in 2007. Representative John Synder United States Marine Corps Corporal Representative John Snyder is a Martin County native with deep roots in the community and a public service passion. He grew up in Stuart and graduated from Hobe Sound Christian Academy in 2007. Afterward, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, in February 2008. In 2011, Rep. Snyder deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. After five years of honorable service, he returned to the Treasure Coast, where he worked full time while completing his degree. Today, Rep. Snyder owns a national recruiting and staffing company that he built from the ground up. As a business owner, he knows what it takes to protect, defend, and expand our business-friendly climate. As a third-generation Floridian, the Representative knows the precious value of clean water and its importance to our economy. He will fight tirelessly for veterans funding, the protection of first responders, and ways to combat the opioid crisis. We can count on him to cut taxes, empower families with options in education, stand up for the rights of the unborn, and defend the second amendment. Rep. Snyder states that his service taught him that “America will always be a nation worth fighting for! Now more than ever, we can’t lose faith in her greatness, and must be resolved to answer the call to protect liberty and freedom, no matter the cost.” Rep. Snyder and his wife Brittany have been married for over ten years and live in Palm City, raising their eight-year-old daughter, Elizabeth. His mother, Keren, is a small business owner, and his father, William Snyder, is the Sheriff of Martin County. His siblings, David and Laura, work in law enforcement and education. << Back to Veteran Legislators

Military personnel records can include DD 214s/Separation Documents, service personnel records found within the Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), and Medical Records. Military personnel records can be used for proving military service or as a valuable tool in genealogical research. ​ Please note: that NPRC holds historical Military Personnel Records of nearly 100 million veterans. The vast majority of these records are paper-based and not available online. Florida Veteran Resources Get My Military Records/DD214 Use this service if you want to request: DD 214/Separation Documents Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) Replacement Medals Medical Records Burial and Emergency Requests Military personnel records can include DD 214s/Separation Documents, service personnel records found within the Official Military Pe rsonnel File (OMPF) , and Medical Records . Military personnel records can be used for proving military service or as a valuable tool in genealogical research. Please note: that NPRC holds historical Military Personnel Records of nearly 100 million veterans. The vast majority of these records are paper-based and not available online. MilConnect: VA Benef it and Record Management Porta l DoD affiliates including: Active Military, Reserves, National Guard, Veterans and beneficiaries can manage their benefits and records through milConnect, a convenient self-service portal. Integrated applications provide secure access to many of their personal and personnel records held in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). The milConnect FAQ provides the most up-to-date policies, procedures, and resources for making the most of their entitlements and benefits. FLHSMV Veterans who have reported using this website said they have received requested documents within hours of submitting the request! T he Military Caregiver Resource Direc tory Includes the most commonly referenced resources, organizations, agencies, and programs that provide support to the caregivers of wounded, ill, or injured Service members. The concept of the Caregiver Resource Directory is to connect communities with caregivers, building public awareness and support for caregivers. The resources, organizations, agencies, and programs included in the Caregiver Resource Directory have been reviewed and vetted in accordance with the National Resource Directory’s participation policy, which can be found at www.nrd.gov . No product endorsements or preferential treatment is given to any organization, agency, or program that is listed in the Caregiver Resource Directory. This Caregiver Resource Directory is a dynamic directory that will be refined on a regular basis. We encourage you to access the digital version of the Caregiver Resource Directory at https://nrd.gov/misc/crdDownload C ounty Veteran Service Officers Use this link to find a local Veteran Service Officer near you. Florida Veterans Benefits Guide Use this link to read the latest edition of the Florida Veterans Benefits Guide. VA Survivo rs and Burial Benefits Kit Use this link for VA survivors and burial benefits kit. Aging Wartime Veterans & Survivors Seminars Long Term Care – Aid & Attendance Benefits (Sponsored by Nat’l Assoc. of Veterans & Families – FVF Ambassador) Get There – Florida’s Workforce Education Initiative Connecting Veterans with College Education Benefits L o c ating Veterans for VA Benefits Getting Veterans Signed Up for Benefits VA Benefits Update Statewide campaign to share important upda tes about VA Benefits on Social Media and on the FVF Website Get My Military Records/DD214 Enter milConnect Portal Military Caregiver Directory County Veteran Service Officers Florida Veterans Benefit Guide VA Survivors and Burial Benefits Kit VA Pension Aid & Attendance VA Pension Aid & Attendance Get There- Florida's Workforce Education Initiative Locating Veterans for VA Benefits

Gadsden Flag License Plate | Supporting the Gadsden Flag License Plate means supporting our Veterans. The proceeds from sales contribute to the foundation's efforts in assisting our Florida Veterans! Veteran Initiatives Veterans Relief Fund FVF partners with Project VetRelief to provide Emergency Financial Assistance. Mission of Mercy Teamed with Florida Dental Association and Mission of Mercy in a “Veterans First” event to provide dental services to over 166 Veterans, giving $1,100 worth of services to each Veteran. In all $182,000 worth of services were provided to Veterans first under the services and guidance of 1,800 Dental professionals. Gadsden Flag License Plate Supporting the Gadsden Flag License Plate means supporting our Veterans. The proceeds from sales contribute to the foundation's efforts in assisting our Florida Veterans! Raising Awareness The Florida Veterans Foundation is actively working on raising awareness through a remodeling of our website to provide a better online presence and engaging social media campaigns to reach a wider audience. We also work with creating mail-outs for mass distribution to our rural areas to ensure our Veterans know what resources are available to them. This includes the foundations involvement in the Florida Governor's Challenge Suicide Prevention Campaign. Ashley's Cottage Teamed wi th Villager for Vet erans to provide homeless female Veterans with transitional housing. The cottage offers a soft-lau nch into civilian life by providing 90-day safe shelter and resources. Veterans Treatment Courts On-going Support – Florida Veterans Legal Help Hotline – 1-866-486-6161 Serving Florida Veterans with consistent standards and structure throughout the state, which provides “best practices” and an infrastructure of proven Veteran Treatment Court operations in Florida.

The Military and Veterans Assistance Program (“MVAP”) was created to help educate military members and veterans on the types of scams that target their communities, what they can do to protect themselves, and how they can help protect others by reporting scams and deceptive business practices. In addition, members of the MVAP team work directly with military service members and veterans who have been targeted... Veterans Resource Center Fraud Prevention, Charity Registry & VetSource Military & Veterans Assistance Prog ram >> Fraud Protection & Prevention The Military and Veterans Assistance Program (“MVAP”) was created to help educate military members and veterans on the types of scams that target their communities, what they can do to protect themselves, and how they can help protect others by reporting scams and deceptive business practices. In addition, members of the MVAP team work directly with military servicemembers and veterans who have been targeted, or their representatives, to help resolve their consumer protection related issues or find other outside assistance if necessary. FRAUD PREVENTION GUIDE If you are aware of a scam targeting our service members or veterans, or you have been affected by a scam or deceptive business practice, please file a complaint with my office by clicking the link below or by calling my consumer protection division directly at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226) Veterans Charity Registry & Check A Charity All charities soliciting within the state of Florida (excluding religious, educational, political and governmental agencies) are required to register and file financial information with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Call 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) or use our online Check-A-Charity tool to find out if a charity is properly registered. You can also find out how much the charity is spending on administration and fundraising and how much money goes to actual programming CHECK A CHARITY The Veterans Resource Center Coming soon a place to research products, services and other military organizations and resources who have registered with the Foundation. Click here to file a complaint

If you or a loved one is thinking about self-harm or feeling hopeless, reach out now. We understand that the challenges you've faced during your service can sometimes weigh heavily on your mind, and it's crucial to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone in this struggle, and together we can navigate the darkest times and rediscover the strength and purpose that lies within you. Veterans Suicide Prevention & Crisis Care Network If you or a loved one is thinking about self-harm or feeling hopeless, reach out now. We understand that the challenges you've faced during your service can sometimes weigh heavily on your mind, and it's crucial to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone in this struggle, and together we can navigate the darkest times and rediscover the strength and purpose that lies within you. 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline: Call 988 and press 1 or reach out via chat: https://988lifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor. Use this button to learn more about the Veteran Suicide Crisis. CLICK HERE Joining Forces to Prevent Veteran Suicide in Rural Florida Counties The Florida Veterans Foundation has launched an impactful mail-out campaign aimed at raising awareness for Veteran Suicide Prevention in five rural counties: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Bay, Walton, and Okaloosa. This initiative, conducted under the Governor's Challenge Suicide Prevention Campaign, seeks to bring attention to the pressing issue of veteran suicide and provide vital resources and support to those who have served our nation. To learn more click here. County Veteran Service Officers Use this link to find a local Veteran Service Officer near you. CLICK HERE Resource Locators First Lady Casey DeSantis has spearheaded the development of an internet-based database known as Hope for Healing that offers an array of mental health and substance abuse resources exclusively designed for service members, Veterans, and their families. Visit https://www.hopeforhealingfl.com/ to find help near you. FindHelp.org is a comprehensive online platform dedicated to connecting individuals with a wide range of mental health and substance abuse resources. The website provides a vast directory of mental health and substance abuse resources, including counseling services, support groups, treatment centers, helplines, and other relevant organizations. Additional Resources In Crisis 211 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Crisis Center of Tampa Bay DCF Statewide Office of Suicide Prevention – Military Vets Mobile Response Crisis Teams Navigating a Mental Health Crisis Stop Soldier Suicide Hope for Healing Florida Peer Support Hold My Guns Centerstone Military Services K9 Partners for Patriots Making the Connection VA Coaching Into Care – Family Support Veteran Spouse Network – Spouse Support Vets4Warriors Home Base Family Support Family Watch Model Helping Military Children with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Parents NAMI Homefront The Power of Parenting: How to Help Your Child After a Parent or Caregiver Dies Taking Care of Yourself While Caring for Others Booklet Addressing Family Needs Booklet Invisible Wounds (Mental Health and Traumatic Brain Injury) Endeavors (The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic) – Veteran Support Gary Sinise Foundation – Veteran Support Give an Hour inTransition – Active-Duty Support Objective Zero Foundation VA Mental Health Support Walk The Talk America Wounded Warrior Project – Veteran Support Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Benefits, Housing, Financial Assistance, & Health Employ Florida Vets – Veteran Support eBenefits: My Gateway to Benefit Information – Veteran Support Florida Veterans’ Benefits Guide – Veteran Support Veterans Benefit Administration – Veteran Support Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP) – Veteran Support MyFloridaMyFamily Apply for VA Health Care PTSD Coach App with Digital Safety Plan