The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs

08/31/2026

Today in Jacksonville, I announced nearly $23 million in investments to strengthen the defense industrial base in Florida. These awards will support critical infrastructure, aerospace and spaceport development, shipbuilding and maritime industries, and military installations across our state.

Workforce development is crucial for Florida to keep leading the way as these industries grow. Alongside other significant investments in workforce development, I was proud to award over $7 million to Florida State College at Jacksonville to create the Cecil Training Institute. This facility will expand welding and logistics programs, with plans to add advanced manufacturing and logistics training to support the region’s growing shipbuilding presence.

08/31/2026

08/31/2026

Residents, visitors, and community groups in Central Florida are encouraged to join the City of Orlando's 27th Annual Veterans Day Parade. To honor America’s 250th anniversary, the celebration will pay tribute to those who served and recognize military families and support groups. Groups must register online by October 9, 2026, to participate. Learn more and register here: https://bit.ly/4gCFAcO 🇺🇸

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and his Veterans Advisory Council will honor the courageous men and women of the armed forces at the 27th annual City of Orlando Veterans Day Parade in Lake Nona.

08/30/2026

The Ardie R. Copas State Veterans’ Nursing Home in Port St. Lucie earned a five-star rating from CMS in the July 2026 update. FDVA commends this achievement and the staff for providing Veterans with high-quality, supportive care. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4gqxAg0
🇺🇸

08/29/2026

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) will host the Southeast Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp from Sept. 11 to 13, in Jacksonville. The event provides a supportive space for adults, children, and teens to learn coping skills and honor loved ones' legacy. Read more: https://bit.ly/46kTCea 🇺🇸

Surviving military families are invited to attend a weekend of hope and healing.

08/28/2026

The August issue of the Forward March Veterans’ Newsletter, produced by The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, is available online at https://bit.ly/4ye23UN. The monthly newsletter is another tool to help connect Florida Veterans with earned benefits and support. 🇺🇸

08/28/2026

The Orlando VA Healthcare System will host a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony marking the 25th anniversary on Sept. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona. The ceremony will honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost, recognize first responders, and pay tribute to service members and Veterans. Read more: https://bit.ly/4zB3o9x 🇺🇸

The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) will host a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, in the first-floor canteen lobby of the Orlando VA Medical Center located at 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando Fl, 32827.

08/27/2026

Dolly Parton always held Veterans close to her heart.

Her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, served in the U.S. Army- making her connection to our military community deeply personal.

From supporting our troops and military families to a lifetime of extraordinary philanthropy, Dolly never stopped giving back.

Rest in Peace, Dolly. 🤍

08/27/2026

Join Us for the 2026 Veterans Day Parade!
The Tampa VA is gearing up for our Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 7, 2026, and we’re looking for volunteers and participants to help make this year’s celebration unforgettable!
This parade is a special opportunity to honor the service and sacrifice of our Veterans while bringing our community together in a meaningful way. Whether you’d like to walk in the parade, help with event support, or simply get more information—we’d love to have you join us!
If you're interested in participating or volunteering, please email [email protected]
Let’s show our support and make this year’s event one to remember!

08/27/2026