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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

Thank you for supporting us! The Florida Veterans Foundation’s mission is to serve, support, and advocate for veterans in need.​ Thank you for supporting us! The Florida Veterans Foundati on’s mission is to serve, support, and advocate for veterans in need. Donate Help us make a difference. First Name Last Name Email Street Address City Region/State/Province Postal / Zip Code & Country Donate in the name of: Enter the amount you wish to donate: $ Donate Thank you for your donation to help our veterans in need! Make checks payable to: Florida Veterans Foundation, 2601 S. Blairestone Rd C300, Tallahassee, FL 32399 Honor A Veteran Become An Ambassador

Rep. Spencer Roach is a retired Coast Guard Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer who spent his first ten years in service as an enlisted man, serving as a search and rescue coxswain and counter-narcotics officer before earning an officer’s commission. Representative Spencer Roach United States Coast Guard Retired Commissioned Officer Rep. Spencer Roach is a retired Coast Guard Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer who spent his first ten years in service as an enlisted man, serving as a search and rescue coxswain and counter-narcotics officer before earning an officer’s commission. He grew up in a proud blue-collar household, working with his father and uncles in a 4th-generation family-owned plumbing company. From an early age, he gained an appreciation for the trades and an unwavering belief that a superior personal work ethic is the great equalizer in pursuit of upward mobility. Rep. Roach enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1996. During his two decades of service, Spencer’s assignments included tours of duty in Alaska, a six-month combat deployment to the Middle East enforcing UN sanctions against Iraq, and service in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina ravaged the Gulf Coast. He was selected for the prestigious Judge Advocate General Program and attended the University of Miami School of Law on a military scholarship. His most recent assignment as a JAG was representing returning soldiers and sailors injured in the line of duty to ensure they received the medical care they deserved. He retired from the Coast Guard in 2016. His actions earned him the Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Commendation Medals, Coast Guard Achievement Medals, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, all with Operational Distinguishing Device. While serving on active duty, Rep. Roach attended Edison Community College and Florida Gulf Coast University, earning a degree in Political Science and graduating summa cum laude from FGCU. He is licensed to practice law in Florida and Texas. After retiring from the Coast Guard, he returned to Lee County, where he had been a resident since his assignment to Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach in 2000. The Representative has always had a passion for public service and served as the District Director for Congressman Francis Rooney. He is a certified ESL teacher and has been active in various volunteer work for well over a decade, although his passion is helping children in foster care. While in law school, Spencer managed a program that provided Financial Literacy classes to children aging out of foster care, and currently, he serves as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem in the 20th Judicial Circuit. Representative Roach said: “My career in the Coast Guard, first as an enlisted man, then as a junior officer, and finally, as a JAG shaped my character and developed my work ethic. I traveled the world & experienced different cultures. It paid for both my undergraduate degree & a law degree at a private, tier-one law school. I made lifelong friends who endured emotional and traumatic experiences alongside me. The Coast Guard gave me a commitment to public service and the leadership skills to be an effective advocate for our community…Semper Paratus.” << Back to Veteran Legislators

Representative Black is an eighth generation Northeast Florida native, residing in Duval County with his wife Kim, on their family farm. Together they have five children and two great grandchildren. Representative Dean Black United States Air Force Veteran 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard Representative Black is an eighth generation Northeast Florida native, residing in Duval County with his wife Kim, on their family farm. Together they have five children and two great grandchildren. Graduating from the University of Mississippi with a BA in Political Science, Rep. Black is a small business owner, a cattle rancher, a Chairman of the Republican Party of Ducal County and now the Florida Representative for District 15. As a staunch Republican, Rep. Black was a campaign surrogate, official Delegate to the 2020 Republican National Convention for President Trump, and had a leading presence on the campaign trail. Additionally, he is a proud Air Force Veteran and was a member of the 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard on Jacksonville’s Northside. Rep. Black states “Northeast Florida needs strong, proven and dependable conservative leaders fighting for our values in Tallahassee. I will be a Representative that stands on a strong America and Florida First agenda: Supporting the Constitution, limited government, the right to bear arms, personal liberty, the sanctity of life, low taxes, school choice and defending our brave men and women in law enforcement.” Those around him say he is a confident leader and a leading conservative voice in the community. << Back to Veteran Legislators

Visit our past event galleries here! Showcased is our 10th Anniversary Gala with Bobby Bowden and our 2023 Legislative Reception. Past Event Galleries 10th Anniversary Gala Military Legislative Reception 2023

The Florida Veterans Foundation serves as the statewide lead organization for Florida Veterans and their families by providing direct services and partnering with state and local governments, veteran service organizations, and educational institutions to improve their overall well-being. About Our Foundation Our team at the Florida Veterans Foundation is passionate about serving Florida Veterans and their families. We are committed to the mission, and all funds received are used to support our five initiatives to serve our Veteran community. Read More Donate About Our Foundation Our team at the Florida Veterans Foundation is passionate about serving Florida Veterans and their families. We are committed to the mission, and all funds received are used to support our five initiatives to serve our Veteran community. Read More Donate Support Us Support the Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) and help us make a difference in the lives of Florida’s veterans! You can show your support by: Purchasing a Gadsden Flag License Plate – Available at your local Florida DMV, a portion of the proceeds directly funds programs that assist veterans in need. Making a Donation – Every contribution helps provide emergency financial assistance, dental care, and other vital services to veterans. Following & Sharing on Social Media – Stay updated on our initiatives and spread awareness by following FVF on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Your support ensures that we can continue our mission of honoring and assisting those who served. Thank you for standing with Florida’s veterans! Gadsden Plate Donate Socials Florida Veterans Dental Grant Program FY2026 FVF introduces the new Florida Veteran Dental Grant Program. The Florida Veterans Dental Program provides critical dental care to Florida veterans who lack access to affordable treatment. Funded by a $1 million appropriation from the Florida Legislature, the program partners with dental providers and organizations to offer services such as extractions, dentures, and restorative care. By addressing urgent and preventative dental needs, the initiative improves veterans' overall health and quality of life. How can we assist you? I Am A Veteran I Am A 501(c)(3) Learn More NO VETERAN LEFT BEHIND Emergency Financial Assistance The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) Emergency Financial Assistance Program, in partnership with Project VetRelief, provides crucial financial support to Florida veterans facing urgent hardships. This program assists with essential needs such as rent, utilities, transportation, and other unexpected expenses to help prevent homelessness and financial instability. Eligible veterans can apply for assistance through Project VetRelief, ensuring they receive timely support during difficult times. Through this initiative, FVF remains committed to honoring and supporting those who have served our country. How can we assist you? I Am A Veteran I Want To Help Learn More

To serve, support, and advocate for Florida veterans to improve their quality of Life! The Florida Veterans Foundation serves as the statewide lead organization for Florida veterans and their families by providing direct services and partnering with state and local governments, veteran service organizations, and educational institutions to improve their physical, financial, mental, emotional, and social well-being. About Florida Veterans Foundatio n Misson Statement To serve, support, and advocate for Florida veterans to improve their quality of Life! The Florida Veterans Foundation serves as the statewide lead organization for Florida veterans and their families by providing direct services and partnering with state and local governments, veteran service organizations, and educational institutions to improve their physical, financial, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Supports the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs’ mission of advocacy; and, advocates for Florida veterans through local and statewide outreach to educate the public and governmental entities, increasing awareness on veteran-related issues. CODE OF ETHICS TEAMWORK The Florida Veterans Foundation team is one of the hardest working veteran advocate teams in the state of Florida. We are composed of a volunteer Chairman and Board of Directors. The majority of the Foundation Directors are retired, military disabled veterans who donate over 40 hours per week of their time to assist and help guide Florida’s veterans through a myriad of issues veterans face today. Whether it’s access to healthcare, education, jobs, VA benefits or the like, our Directors are here to help. Several Directors are trained Veteran Service Officers who know the extent, the meaning and the application of laws that have been passed by Congress in the interests of veterans and their dependents. Our Directors know the rules and regulations adopted by the Department of Veterans Affairs to clarify and implement those laws. Chief Operating Officer – Raymond Miller USMC Veteran Latest News Public Service Announcement: Dental Program for Florida Veterans Florida Veterans Foundation Continues Statewide Veterans Dental Program in 2026 Public Service Announcement: Florida Veterans Foundation Launches Dental Program with First Grant Award to Wounded Veterans Relief Fund Dental Grant Program Public Service Announcement FINANCIALS The Florida Veterans Foundation was founded in 2008 by the Florida Legislature and is supported by individual and corporate donations, grants, fundraisers and direct public support to help us faithfully execute our mission of providing emergency and support services and programs for Veterans and their families across the state of Florida. VIEW REPORTS FLORIDA VETERANS FOUNDATION, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Email: fvf@fdva.fl.gov Phone: 850-782-4305

Jarrid “Jay” Collins is a highly-decorated Army Special Forces combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient with over two decades of service following in the footsteps of his WWII veteran adoptive father. Adopted and raised by his grandparents, Rep. Collins spent his early years on his family’s farm in Montana where he later started college before enlisting in the Army. Senator Jarrid "Jay" Collins Army Special Forces Combat Veteran Special Forces Jarrid “Jay” Collins is a highly-decorated Army Special Forces combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient with over two decades of service following in the footsteps of his WWII veteran adoptive father. Adopted and raised by his grandparents, Rep. Collins spent his early years on his family’s farm in Montana where he later started college before enlisting in the Army. Senator Collins attended American Military University earning a B.S. in Health Sciences, and later a graduate degree from Norwhich University in 2012. While attending Airborne School, our nation was attacked on 9/11. This harsh reality, coupled with hearing stories about Special Forces soldiers who were on the forward edge of the War on Terror, Rep. Collins was inspired to attend Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS). He was selected to become a Special Force Medic, rescuing a hypothermic classmate in the middle of an ice storm, and earned the leadership award at his Special Forces Graduation. As a Green Beret, Rep. Collins deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and twice to South America. In his 2007 Afghanistan deployment, he was hit in the arm, continued fighting, and later helped perform surgery on himself in the field of battle. Staying in country, he returned to full combat operations after just thirty days of recovery. Rep. Collins would overcome his chronic injuries to be selected for US Army Special Operations Command, but ultimately had to have his leg amputated due to the severity of his condition. Following his amputation, he requalified as a fully deployable Green Beret and served over five more years on active duty. Following twenty-three years of service, Rep. Collins took a position with a nonprofit, overseeing the distribution of millions of meals to veterans, first responders, and those in need. As a committed family man, Rep. Collins is married to his wife of twenty-one years Layla, a retired veteran with twenty years of service herself, and a father to two young sons, Gabe and Colt. Having chosen Tampa as the place to raise their family, proud Floridians Jay and Layla are dedicated to serving their community. << Back to Veteran Legislators

Representative Duggan was born in Jacksonville and is a fifth-generation Floridian. He has been married for twenty-four years to his college sweetheart, and they have three children. He received his undergraduate degree from The University of the South in Sewanee, TN, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and his law degree from William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA. Representative Wyman Duggan United States Marine Corps Reserve Commissioned Officer Representative Duggan was born in Jacksonville and is a fifth-generation Floridian. He has been married for twenty-four years to his college sweetheart, and they have three children. He received his undergraduate degree from The University of the South in Sewanee, TN, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and his law degree from William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA. Rep. Duggan is a graduate of the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and served as a commissioned Marine Corps officer. He served in the Marine Corps Reserve from 1993 until 1995. He is a shareholder and member of the governing board of Rogers Towers, P.A., one of the oldest private businesses in Northeast Florida, founded in 1905. He serves as a business lawyer focusing on land use, private property rights, and economic development. He represents individuals, businesses, and non-profits struggling against government regulations and taxation in their pursuit of the American Dream. The Representative has been active in professional, civic, and non-profit activities at the state and local level for many years, including service as the Chair of the City of Jacksonville’s 2009-2010 Charter Revision Commission; as Vice-Chair of the City’s 2013 Task Force on Consolidated Government; as Vice-Chair of the City’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan Local Major Issues Committee; as a two-time Chair of the Commercial/ Industrial Development Task Force of the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce; as a Board member and President of NAIOP of Northeast Florida, the commercial real estate development association; on the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Jacksonville; on the Board of Directors of Jacksonville Community Council, Inc.; on the Board of Directors and President of Emergency Pregnancy Services, Inc.; on the Troop Committee of BSA Troop 2 (Great Muskogee District, North Florida Council); and on the Vestry (board of trustees) of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. He is a member of the Leadership Jacksonville Class of 2009; Leadership Florida Class XXXII; the inaugural class of the Jacksonville Regional Political Leadership Institute; and the American Enterprise Institute’s National Leadership Network (Spring, 2016 Summit). << Back to Veteran Legislators

Meet one of our 2023-2024 Military Legislator's Bryan Avila! Representative Bryan Avila Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving First Lieutenant Representative Bryan Avila was born andraised in Hialeah, Florida. Bryan’s parents, Bryan and Rosa Maria came to the United States seeking freedom from Cuba’s communist regime. His parents instilled in him the same principles that allowed them to become proud homeowners and successful citizens in the U.S. In April of 2016, Rep. Avila joined the Florida Army National Guard and is currently serving as a First Lieutenant. He distinguished himself by completing the Adjutant General Basic Officer Leader Course as an Honor Graduate and serving as a Human Resources Officer. He has earned a place on the Commandant’s List and is a Leadership Award Recipient. Additionally, he has, over his four years, earned the Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Florida Commendation Medal, Florida State Active Duty Ribbon, Florida Retention Ribbon, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Rep. Avila graduated from Miami Springs Senior High School in 2002. He has since earned an Associate of Arts degree from Miami Dade College, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Miami, and two Masters Degrees from Florida International University. He was an Adjunct Professor at Miami Dade College from 2009 until 2014. Since then, he has taught at Broward College. First elected in 2014 to represent the district that includes Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens, Miami Springs, and Virginia Gardens, Rep. Avila has been a champion for veterans’ issues. He most recently sponsored a bill making it unlawful to use uniforms, medals, or insignia to misrepresent military service. During the 2019-2020 Legislative sessions, he chaired the powerful Ways & Means Committee and served on the Appropriations Committee and Gaming Control Subcommittee. In November, he was sworn in as Speaker Pro Tempore of the Florida House of Representatives. An editorial in the Miami Herald noted: “Bryan Avila is probably the only South Florida legislator who was unable to campaign, not because of COVID-19, but because he was deployed by the Florida National Guard to take part in the pandemic response effort.” << Back to Veteran Legislators

Rep. Killebrew entered the Navy after graduating from Auburndale High School in 1963. He served three years, much of it attached to Naval Aviation, at overseas duty stations included Okinawa. “I was always attached to aviation, so I was never on a ship,” Rep Killebrew said. “I enjoyed my tour — glad I went. Representative Sam Killebrew United States Navy FVF Current Board Member, Elected 2016 Rep. Killebrew entered the Navy after graduating from Auburndale High School in 1963. He served three years, much of it attached to Naval Aviation, at overseas duty stations included Okinawa. “I was always attached to aviation, so I was never on a ship,” Rep Killebrew said. “I enjoyed my tour — glad I went. After serving in the U.S. Navy, a lifelong Florida and Polk County resident, Rep. Killebrew owned and operated multiple construction and manufacturing companies, including; Killebrew Manufacturing Company, Imperial Trailer Service, Killebrew Inc., and Rotational Molding Company. He is also a former partner of the Florida Strategic Group, LLC. Sam is actively involved in the progress and expansion of New Beginnings High School, aiming to help students who have dropped out to earn a high school diploma. Rep. Killebrew was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2016 and was just elected to a third term. He served as Vice-Chair for the House PreK-12 Innovation Subcommittee and a member of the Florida Veterans and Military Families Caucus. The Representative also sits on numerous boards and civic organizations throughout the state. He regularly sponsors legislation to protect Veterans, animals, and children and families. He has played an influential role in bringing over $10 million to Polk County for various road/highway projects, water quality preservation and restoration, educational programs, and other projects around the district. Notable Veteran legislation that Rep. Killebrew has sponsored or co-sponsored include: Ad Valorem Tax Discount for Spouses of Certain Deceased Veterans Who Had Permanent, Combat-Related Disabilities: Will allow the surviving spouse of a combat-wounded veteran to keep their ad valorem tax discount after the veteran dies; and Enrollment of Dependent Children of Active Duty Military Personnel in the Florida Virtual School: Allows students of active-duty military personnel stationed abroad but claim Florida has their resident state to attend Florida virtual school. He is married to Eileen Killebrew of Lake Wales, and they have five children, seven grandchildren, five dogs, and an avid supporter of Hope Equine Rescue. << Back to Veteran Legislators