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Representative Mike Giallombardo is a husband, father, combat veteran, and businessman dedicated to serving his community. His military roots run deep. His father, Robert, was stationed in South Korea with the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division when he met a Korean woman named Sun. When his deployment ended, Sun decided to leave South Korea and move to the United States with Robert. Their son, Mike Giallombardo, was born in 1982. Representative Mike Giallombardo Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving Warrant Officer Representative Mike Giallombardo is a husband, father, combat veteran, and businessman dedicated to serving his community. His military roots run deep. His father, Robert, was stationed in South Korea with the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division when he met a Korean woman named Sun. When his deployment ended, Sun decided to leave South Korea and move to the United States with Robert. Their son, Mike Giallombardo, was born in 1982. Rep. Giallombardo grew up in Cape Coral, where he attended Pelican Elementary, Gulf Middle School, and attended both Mariner and North Ft. Myers High Schools. At an early age, he developed a love for playing football and was a standout player throughout high school, which ultimately led to college scholarships. He earned an Associates in Science degree from Georgia Military College, a Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Florida Atlantic University, and a Master’s Degree in International Relations with a concentration in Conflict Resolution from American Military University. After college, the Representative enlisted in the United States Army and was deployed to Iraq to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his deployment, he served with the 4th Infantry Division and supported special operation missions. Mike played a significant role as a liaison to the Iraqi military and other coalition forces supporting Iraq’s counterinsurgency effort. Highly decorated from operations, he was awarded numerous medals, including the Army Commendation and Army Achievement Medals for his operational roles in Iraq, leading to the capture of various targets. Rep. Giallombardo currently serves as a Warrant Officer in the Florida National Guard, where he serves as a State Emergency Response Team liaison for Florida. He was activated for multiple hurricanes working with multiple counties to ensure that the citizens receive support from the Florida National Guard. When not on active duty, he owns and operates businesses that specialize in cybersecurity, technology development, commercialization of new technology, and education. He specializes in assisting law enforcement, assisting veteran-owned companies, and helping veterans transition to civilian life. The Representative is a member of the Military Officers Association in Cape Coral, Veterans of Foreign Wars in Cape Coral, Southwest Florida Military Museum, ESGR, South Florida Defense Alliance, and serves as a mentor to more than a dozen women and veteran-owned businesses. Reflecting on his service Rep. Giallombardo said, “Serving in this nation has been the honor of my lifetime, whether with the Army in Iraq or with the National Guard testing for potential COVID patients in the U.S. I’m looking forward to building on this record of service in the Florida House!” He and his wife Wendi have been married for 11 years. They have a son Luca (7), daughter Presley (4), and help raise their niece Ivey (8). << Back to Veteran Legislators

Representative Holcomb is originally from Maryland where he attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County earning a BA in Economics, later continuing his education at American Military University with a MA in Intelligence Studies. After moving to Florida in 2002, Rep. Holcomb and his wife, Stacey have two daughters and have resided in Hernando County for over twenty years. Representative Jeff Holcomb United States Navy Reserve, 2006-Present Lieutenant Representative Holcomb is originally from Maryland where he attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County earning a BA in Economics, later continuing his education at American Military University with a MA in Intelligence Studies. After moving to Florida in 2002, Rep. Holcomb and his wife, Stacey have two daughters and have resided in Hernando County for over twenty years. Rep. Holcomb, in addition to being a realtor, serves as an Intelligence Officer in the United States Navy Reserve since 2006. In 2016 LT Holcomb was called to active duty to fight ISIS in support Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria and Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan. He served on the Master Air Attack Plan team in the Combat Plans Division of the Air Operations Center in Southwest Asia. During his service, he earned a Navy Commendation Medal and a Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal. Prior to his election into the Florida House of Representatives, Rep. Holcomb was elected to the Board of County Commissioners in November 2014 and was re-elected in 2018. In 2019, he served as Chairman of the Commission, and he also served as Chairman of the Hernando County Republican Executive Committee from 2018-2020. Rep. Holcomb has many years of community involvement that includes his work with the Hernando County Veterans Council, Hernando County Education Foundation, Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority, Metropolitan Planning Organization, Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Medical Examiner Board, Withlacoochee Regional Water Supply Authority, along with his support and participation in sixteen different local charities, and his efforts for the improvement of twelve County Parks. << Back to Veteran Legislators

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

Representative Paul Renner (R-Palm Coast) serves as State Representative to District 24 in the Florida House of Representatives and is slated to become House Speaker in 2022. He is currently Chair of the Rules Committee. Rep. Renner is a military veteran, former prosecutor, and local business attorney. Representative Paul Renner United States Navy Retired Commander Representative Paul Renner (R-Palm Coast) serves as State Representative to District 24 in the Florida House of Representatives and is slated to become House Speaker in 2022. He is currently Chair of the Rules Committee. Rep. Renner is a military veteran, former prosecutor, and local business attorney. He began his legal career as an Assistant State Attorney, during which he prosecuted serious felony offenses. Rep. Renner also served as a naval officer, both on active duty and in the reserves. He joined the U.S. Navy and earned his commission as a Surface Warfare Officer. While on active duty, he served during combat operations onboard the USS McInerney (FFG-8) in support of the ground offensive to liberate Kuwait in Operation Desert Storm. He also served as Small Boat Officer for the destruction of floating Iraqi contact mines. As a Commander in the Navy Reserves, Paul received orders to serve as an Intelligence Officer in Afghanistan in 2011. Paul led a team focused on counter-terrorism efforts. He was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for his “direct and significant contribution to the disruption of foreign facilitation networks [that] led to the capture or arrest of numerous key network leaders, delivering a considerable blow against the enemies of our Nation.” For twenty-three years, Paul has served on active duty and in the reserves, receiving numerous commendations and awards. Rep. Renner was raised in Northeast Florida, where he attended Public School. He earned his Juris Doctorate at the University of Florida, Levin College of Law, and his Bachelor of Arts in history at Davidson College in North Carolina. He lives in Palm Coast with his wife and daughter. << Back to Veteran Legislators

The Florida Veterans Foundation 10th Anniversary Gala with Bobby Bowden. 10th Anniversary Gala with Bobby Bowden Load More >> Back to Galleries

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. FVF Dental Grant Program Are you a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to serving Florida's veterans? Do you have a passion for providing essential dental care to those who have sacrificed so much for our country? The Florida Veterans Foundation is now accepting grant applications to support organizations that offer vital dental services to veterans in need. We understand the challenges many veterans face in accessing quality dental care and are committed to making a positive impact on their lives. Grant funding will be used to: · Provide dental exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions · Support dental dentures · Assist with specialized dental procedures To qualify for a grant, your organization must: · Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Florida · Have a proven track record of serving veterans · Demonstrate a clear need for funding to support dental services TO APPLY: Please fill out the form below. Once this is submitted an application packet will be sent to the contact listed. Apply Here Organization's Name* Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)* Contact First Name* Contact Last Name* Contact Email* Contact Phone Number Address (Street, City, State, Zip Code)* How did you hear about us? Apply Now Please note the following: Definition of Veteran: According to Chapter 1.01 of the 2023 Florida Statues, “the term ‘veteran’ means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under honorable conditions only or who later received an upgraded discharge under honorable conditions, notwithstanding any action by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs on individuals discharged or released with other than honorable discharges. The term includes all members of the Florida National Guard and United States Reserve Forces who were discharged or released under honorable conditions only, or who later received an upgraded discharge under honorable conditions. Veteran Eligibility: Qualifying veterans must also meet the following requirements: · Been issued a DD-214, NGB 22 or Certificate of Discharge. · Residency requirement - eligible veterans must reside in Florida. · Be at a 400% Poverty Level or below as defined by the federal government at the time of their application. · Be less than 100% service-connected disabled. Dental Rules For more information please contact us at fvf@fdva.fl.gov

Submit a photo of your Veteran family and friends to honor them on our page. In Memory Of . . . Those who have served this great nation . To submit a Veteran to our page, click here. Dennis Maiocchi National Guard Robert Norem USAF Vietnam Veteran Lewis B Wilson Jr. Sergeant, USMC 1942-1945 4th Marine Division, Pacific Islands Buddy White Lee Alfred Jr. U.S. Army Oscar V. Dye USAF George C Brand Jr. National Guard, Company A 3rd Battalion, 124th Infantry Brigade Lieutenant Colonel E. Conrad Sittler U.S. Army Wayne H. Coloney Tom Chaboudy USMC April 6th, 2023 Harry L. Fake Jr. U.S. Army Vietnam Norman Gail Woods U. S. Navy, Chief Warrant Officer, World War II POW Larry Lattimer Major, USA, USAF (Ret), Vietnam Melbourne Allan Shepard Jr. USN, Vietnam Veteran Donald E. Wright Airman 3rd Class, USAF, Korea Dale Doss U.S. Navy Veteran, Silver Star Recipient Bernard "Bun" O'Connell Sgt, USMC 5th Marine Division, 13th Marines Colonel Harold E. (Hal) Grant Army Air Corps, USAF, WWII & Vietnam Veteran Robert “Bob” Lee Franklin, Sgt 29th Infantry, US Army Thomas Mabry Ervin Ramon Scott Sgt. Ronald Standiford U.S. Army, Co. C, 4th Batt, 31st Infantry. Vietnam, Purple Heart Virginia Woods Department of the Navy Matt Strong USAF Vietnam Vet Nolan L. Bennett U.S. Navy, NATO and Vietnam Passed on 08/27/2023 Myron Duane Kitt, Sr. USMC, Corporal Kitt Transitioned November 2, 2023 in Tampa, FL Memorial Wall George Wilsey, U.S. Army Dr. Harry K. Taylor Ms. Jessie C. Miller, USAF Ryan Elzie O’Leary Lance Corporal, USMC Tom and Christine R eddaway James Eveland John O'Connor Don Gress Misti Kehoe, Kelly Tepper, Kim Kehoe-Brown Jackie Modica Bob Kehoe Jim Camp & Eva Cline William Poe Radioman/Signal Corp, USA Roger Dale McKenzie U.S. Navy Veteran Megan Healy Dade Institute of Technology Jennifer Grier Dick Reddaway James H. Sutphin Rockledge, FL Josephine "Josie" Haynes Jennifer Grier Dick Reddaway Richard E. Tomlin, Jr. Ed Mullinax Mosquito Joe of Tampa Bay Nahlin Yanez George Diggins US Army, 2002-2023, Purple Heart Recipient Ellert A. Dominick US Navy Leyane Salcedo Army, 2-7IN Chandler Jackson Dawson SPC US Army Passed Dec. 29, 2023 Remembering WWII Veteran and Co-Founder of the Florida Veterans Foundation, Major John Haynes Video courtesy of WCTV. Honor A Veteran Your Name (First & Last) Your Veterans Name (First & Last) Email Please include any additional information you would like such as Branch, Date of Passing, etc. Submit Thanks for submitting! Additionally, to submit a photo of your Veteran please email the photo file to fvf@fdva.fl.gov .

The best way to contact us is via our email fvf@fdva.fl.gov. Contact Us First Name Last Name Email Message Thanks for submitting! Send Office Location 2601 S. Blairstone Rd C300, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001 Phone: (850) 782-4305 fvf@fdva.fl.gov

Our Corporate Sponsors Become a sponsor today The Florida Veterans Foundation is proud to partner with mission-aligned businesses whose generous support and commitment assist FVF in providing essential services to Florida's veterans. Learn More Become a Sponsor - John CEO,XYZ company Sponsor since 2026 "XYZCompany loves to support Florida's Veterans by sponsoring FVF." Visionary AJAX Paving Industries Read More Ajax Paving Industries of Florida is a long-standing asphalt and infrastructure contractor known for delivering projects across Florida since 1981, with a strong focus on community engagement. Learn more AJAX Paving Industries Read More Ajax Paving Industries of Florida is a long-standing asphalt and infrastructure contractor known for delivering projects across Florida since 1981, with a strong focus on community engagement. Learn more AJAX Paving Industries Read More Ajax Paving Industries of Florida is a long-standing asphalt and infrastructure contractor known for delivering projects across Florida since 1981, with a strong focus on community engagement. Learn more Visionary Sponsors donate $X annually or provide services of equivalent value Other ways to help FVF appreciates all of its generous corporate, nonprofit, and community supporters across Florida. If you need more time to consider our sponsorship program, FVF also accepts one-time organization donations. Donate

Representative Patt Maney is a veteran, a father, a respected retired judge, and a longtime resident of Okaloosa County. After being commissioned in the United States Army Reserve in 1970, Rep Maney served his country for over 36 years, retiring as a brigadier general in 2007. Representative Thomas Patterson Maney United States Army Brigadier General R epresentative Patt Maney is a veteran, a father, a respected retired judge, and a longtime resident of Okaloosa County. After being commissioned in the United States Army Reserve in 1970, Rep Maney served his country for over 36 years, retiring as a brigadier general in 2007. He served as an Okaloosa County Judge for almost 29 years. During that time, he fought for justice in our community and was influential in bringing more quality healthcare to our veterans. Commissioned as an Army Infantry Second Lieutenant upon graduating from college, he saw service in Panama, Haiti, Bosnia, and Afghanistan. A defining moment in Patt Maney’s military career came in 2005. While deployed to Afghanistan, an improvised explosive device detonated, throwing his vehicle into the air and causing significant injuries. Although he would survive this attack, he was wounded and would spend almost 20 months recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. After regaining his health, Rep. Maney returned to the bench with a renewed passion for helping veterans and their families. In 2008, he led local efforts to establish a community-based Homeless Veterans “Stand Down” and a Veterans Treatment Court. In 2012, the Florida Legislature passed the “T. Patt Maney Veterans Treatment Intervention Act.” The Representative was honored as the national 2019 DAV Outstanding Disabled American Veteran and named Military Order of the Purple Heart National Patriot of the Year in 2010. He was also given the United States Army War College Outstanding Alumni Award (2019) for his community service after military retirement. Rep. Maney was inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame (2018) and appointed to serve on the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame Council (2019) for making significant contributions to the State of Florida after military service. Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Patt Maney grew up with a strong work ethic. His first jobs were cutting grass and delivering newspapers. He worked his way through college and law school. By 18, his devotion to service saw him earn the Boy Scout Eagle Scout Award, Boy Scout God and Country Award, and the British Duke of Edinburgh Award. After marrying his college sweetheart, Caroline, he set off for law school, at times working two part-time jobs. The Maneys are married for over 48 years and are blessed with two daughters, two sons-in-law, and six grandchildren. They attend Immanuel Anglican Church in Destin and have been Okaloosa County residents for 44 years. << Back to Veteran Legislators

Meet the Florida Veterans' Foundation's Military Legislators of 2023 to 2024. Meet the Military Veteran Legislators 2025 – 2026 Florida Legislature Series The FVF is proud to honor the military veterans serving in the 2025 Florida Legislature by kicking off the “Meet the Military Veteran Legislators 2025-2026 Florida Legislature Series.” We welcome the members of the 2024-2026 Legislature who have served, or are currently serving, in the United State Military. We are especially gratified that six members are currently serving in uniform as Reservists or members of the Florida National Guard. We encourage you to share this background so that Floridians know the military heritage that exists in the Legislature and how some legislators are serving their country in two ways, by being a legislator and a service member. Bryan Av ila Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving First Lieutenant READ BIO Danny Alvarez BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Dean Black United States Air Force 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard READ BIO Danny Burgess Florida Army National Guard Currently Serving Major READ BIO John Snyder United States Marine Corps Corporal READ BIO Keith Truenow United States Air Force Airman READ BIO Wyman Duggan United States Marine Corps Commissioned Office r READ BIO Lisa Dunkley United States Army Veteran READ BIO Mike Giallombardo Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving Warrant Officer READ BIO John Albert BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Jeff Holcomb United States Navy Reserve, 2006-Present Lieutenant READ BIO Bill Conerly BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Thomas Patterson "Pat" Maney United States Army Brigadier General READ BIO Fiona McFarland United States Navy Reserve Lieutenant, Drilling Reservist READ BIO Yvette Bennarroch BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Tom Keen United States Navy Naval Flight Officer READ BIO Michelle Salzman United States Army Specialist READ BIO David Smith United States Marine Corps (Retired) Colonel READ BIO

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 The State of Florida requires a criminal background check for volunteer positions and can use the results to determine your acceptance and placement. If so, please provide a copy of your certificate and your certificate number: 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!