Florida rallies to support proposed legislation to designate November as ‘Veterans Appreciation Month’

Florida Veterans are voicing their support for proposed legislation, SB 346 & HB 357, to designate November as Veterans Appreciation Month in the state.

The bills, sponsored by Republican Sen. Blaise Ingoglia and House Rep. Jeff Holcomb, who is also a Navy officer, seek to extend the recognition beyond Veterans Day by offering a month-long focus on the needs and contributions of veterans.

Seth Ramsey, a former Marine who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, believes the bills are a positive step for the veteran community. Ramsey, now 34, helps fellow Florida veterans with their post-military transitions. He emphasizes the importance of citizens spending more time addressing the needs of veterans and appreciates the proposed legislation.

The idea of ​​dedicating November to veterans is not new, as it is already being observed at the federal level. Since 1966, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation declaring November as National Veterans and Military Families Month. To align with this initiative, the federal government has introduced a resource support page for veterans and their families.

If approved by the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is also a veteran, the state would follow suit by recognizing November as Veterans Appreciation Month. The proposed legislation encourages Floridians to hold special programs and events throughout November to express their gratitude to veterans.

While no specific examples are outlined, suggestions include creating platforms for veterans and their families to upload photos in tribute to service members.

Billy Francis, retired Air Force pilot and Director of Florida State University’s Student Veterans Center suggests using various media to share photos of both living and deceased veterans. It envisions local governments broadcasting these profiles during public service announcements, city council meetings and recesses.

Trey Purvis, a former Marine, envisions more parades and a citywide shutdown in recognition, similar to a homecoming affair. It emphasizes the importance of honoring fallen comrades and recognizing the sacrifices made.

Florida lawmakers are set to convene in January, giving the legislature a chance to vote on officially designating November as Veterans Appreciation Month. Veterans like Purvis stress the importance of recognizing both those who have served and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.