‘Deserve to be honored:’ Horizon West American Legion needs help honoring veterans with a wreath
Read full article: ‘Deserve to be honored:’ Horizon West American Legion needs help honoring veterans with a wreathWith the holiday season approaching, the Horizon West American Legion Post 419 is working tirelessly to ensure that every veteran laid to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Gotha is honored during this year’s Wreaths Across America event on Dec. 13.
Marine Corps veteran joins Trooper Steve on Patrol
Read full article: Marine Corps veteran joins Trooper Steve on PatrolWhether she’s working with a national veterans organization or showing up at local events to lend her support, Yaritza Perez continues to embody the Marine Corps spirit of honor, courage and commitment.
Orange County Veterans Day event marks end of Vietnam War
Read full article: Orange County Veterans Day event marks end of Vietnam WarDozens of Orange County leaders and representatives gathered Monday to honor those who have served in the U.S. military, marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.
VA delays amid government shutdown leaves Central Florida veteran’s body stranded in funeral home
Read full article: VA delays amid government shutdown leaves Central Florida veteran’s body stranded in funeral homeThe body of a U.S. Air Force veteran has remained at a Kissimmee funeral home for more than a month, as a government shutdown leaves his caregiver struggling to secure funeral benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
From SNAP to Social Security, what the government shutdown means for November benefits
Read full article: From SNAP to Social Security, what the government shutdown means for November benefitsThe government shutdown stretching into November will have a huge impact on millions of Americans, but only a handful of federal safety net programs are affected.
Last surviving Army Ranger from D-Day’s Omaha Beach honored with Congressional Gold Medal in Winter Park
Read full article: Last surviving Army Ranger from D-Day’s Omaha Beach honored with Congressional Gold Medal in Winter ParkMaj. Gen. John C. Raaen Jr., the last surviving U.S. Army Ranger who took part in the initial assault on Omaha Beach on D-Day, received the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony at The Mayflower at Winter Park on Wednesday.
Funds raised after vehicle crashes into 92-year-old veteran’s Florida home
Read full article: Funds raised after vehicle crashes into 92-year-old veteran’s Florida homeA 92-year-old Korean War veteran finds himself displaced after a vehicle crashed into his Marion County home, leaving the structure condemned.
Dr. Terry Spain on veteran transition, investing, mentorship
Read full article: Dr. Terry Spain on veteran transition, investing, mentorshipCorie Murray interviews Dr. Terry Spain, a 21-year U.S. Navy veteran and retired Chief Petty Officer who is now the CEO of Sports First Media and Terry Spain Consulting.
Orlando VA summit teaches caregivers to help veterans and themselves
Read full article: Orlando VA summit teaches caregivers to help veterans and themselvesThe Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) welcomed caregivers, VA staff, and community partners Monday for its Annual Caregiver Summit, a half-day event designed to connect, inform, and uplift those who provide daily support to the nation’s Veterans.
Eye on the storm: The Air Force’s mission to stay one step ahead of hurricane season
Read full article: Eye on the storm: The Air Force’s mission to stay one step ahead of hurricane seasonHere’s a glimpse into how the Air Force gears up its personnel and local communities to stay prepared and protected during hurricane season.
Memorial Day ceremony in Ocoee marked by personal reflections, military honors
Read full article: Memorial Day ceremony in Ocoee marked by personal reflections, military honorsVeterans, Gold Star families and city leaders gathered in Ocoee to commemorate servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice, holding a solemn Memorial Day ceremony marked by personal reflections and military honors.
Veterans speak out after Orlando bans longtime golf tradition near Central Florida Fairgrounds
Read full article: Veterans speak out after Orlando bans longtime golf tradition near Central Florida FairgroundsFor more than 30 years, a group of senior veterans have gathered to hit golf balls and swap stories on a patch of grass near the Central Florida Fairgrounds.
Army Corps of Engineers to go digging for military junk in Brevard County yards
Read full article: Army Corps of Engineers to go digging for military junk in Brevard County yardsThis week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will start digging in the yards of a neighborhood that’s been at the center of a possible cancer cluster.
Orlando VA Healthcare System to host National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony
Read full article: Orlando VA Healthcare System to host National Vietnam War Veterans Day CeremonyThis milestone event honors and expresses gratitude to the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War, recognizing their sacrifices and dedication to our nation.
After Trump halted funding for Afghans who helped the US, this group stepped in to help
Read full article: After Trump halted funding for Afghans who helped the US, this group stepped in to helpAn organization of American veterans, Afghans who fled their country and other volunteers has stepped up to help Afghans at risk of being stranded overseas.
Trump administration plans to cut 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, according to internal memo
Read full article: Trump administration plans to cut 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, according to internal memoThe Department of Veterans Affairs is planning an “aggressive” reorganization that includes cutting 80,000 jobs from the sprawling agency that provides health care for millions of veterans.
‘She’s just incredible:’ 3-year-old therapy dog brings joy to all those around her
Read full article: ‘She’s just incredible:’ 3-year-old therapy dog brings joy to all those around her“Over at the VA, there’s one that she’s just totally bonded with over the last couple of weeks, she’ll just cuddle with him,” Samantha Baruah, Freyja’s handler and owner, told News 6. “You know, the other veterans joke that he is the tough guy of the group and really doesn’t smile until Freya is around.”
VA pauses billions in cuts lauded by Musk as lawmakers and veterans decry loss of critical care
Read full article: VA pauses billions in cuts lauded by Musk as lawmakers and veterans decry loss of critical careThe Department of Veterans Affairs has temporarily suspended billions in contract cuts after an uproar that critical veterans health services were harmed, lawmakers and veterans service organizations said Wednesday.
How service dogs are improving veterans' lives and mental health
Read full article: How service dogs are improving veterans' lives and mental healthT.D. Hood is a veteran who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after serving for 5 years in a combat-related environment. With the help of his therapist and K9s for Warriors, Hood was able to find a forever friend in his service dog, Cooper. He shares his story.
VA nurses are in short supply. Unions say Trump's deferred resignation plan could make things worse
Read full article: VA nurses are in short supply. Unions say Trump's deferred resignation plan could make things worseNurses caring for military veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs comprise the largest group of federal employees.
Ancestry test leads to reunion between US veteran, son after 72 years
Read full article: Ancestry test leads to reunion between US veteran, son after 72 yearsAbout 72 years ago, Joseph LaPointe returned to the United States after a stint in Germany, where he had been stationed as a member of the U.S. military. But a part of him stayed behind. Fast forward to Friday night. LaPointe is ending the month of January by starting a new chapter — with a son he has not seen in seven decades.
World War II veteran gets Magic Kingdom Flag Retreat honor for 100th birthday
Read full article: World War II veteran gets Magic Kingdom Flag Retreat honor for 100th birthdayNot only was a recent Flag Retreat an honor for U.S. Army Col. William “Bill” Connelly, it added a little extra magic to his 100th birthday.
‘An honest life:’ Orlando World War II veteran turns 100, shares his story
Read full article: ‘An honest life:’ Orlando World War II veteran turns 100, shares his storyArmy Veteran Harold B. Gross, a World War II veteran, marked his 100th birthday in an event filled with gratitude, recognition, and reflection.
VA announces GI Bill benefits expansion for veterans who served multiple periods
Read full article: VA announces GI Bill benefits expansion for veterans who served multiple periodsVeterans who served multiple periods of military service, like those who reenlisted, are now eligible for up to an additional 12 months of education benefits.
3 ways a government shutdown could affect Central Florida
Read full article: 3 ways a government shutdown could affect Central FloridaIf the government shuts down, essential services remain in place, but others will be stopped or delayed. Here are some ways a government shutdown could affect people living in Central Florida.
Free parking for disabled veterans: Orlando International Airport among those offering discounts
Read full article: Free parking for disabled veterans: Orlando International Airport among those offering discountsNavigating airport logistics can be a daunting task, especially for disabled veterans who may face unique challenges while traveling.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, this Disney World tradition honors veterans every day
Read full article: Amidst the hustle and bustle, this Disney World tradition honors veterans every dayAt 5 o'clock nightly, just within the park entrance, guests and cast members stand at attention for one of Disney’s longest traditions when the American flag is lowered, folded into a triangle, and then given to a veteran or the family of a veteran.
‘Focus on the music:’ Orlando veteran uses musical talent to cope with PTSD, help others
Read full article: ‘Focus on the music:’ Orlando veteran uses musical talent to cope with PTSD, help othersA Central Florida veteran is using his self-taught piano skills to not only heal himself but help heal others who are facing their own challenges.
Orlando group helps getting service dogs trained for veterans
Read full article: Orlando group helps getting service dogs trained for veteransTuesday on Breakfast with Bridgett, local service dog training group, Dog Training Elite Orlando, shared information on how service dog training is helping transform lives for many, including our local veterans.
Gratitude, respect, and remembrance: Lake Highland Prep hosts annual Veterans Day salute
Read full article: Gratitude, respect, and remembrance: Lake Highland Prep hosts annual Veterans Day saluteOver 400 Lake Highland first through 12th-grade students in the performing arts have worked diligently since the beginning of the school year to prepare for their annual performance to honor our courageous veterans.
Army veteran, police officer partner to fight crime in Ocala’s toughest community
Read full article: Army veteran, police officer partner to fight crime in Ocala’s toughest communityThey're an unlikely team: a recently-hired police officer from Tanzania and an Army veteran born and raised in Ocala tackling crime together in one of the city's roughest spots - Berkeley Pointe apartments.
VA announces disaster assistance, resources for veterans affected by Hurricane Milton
Read full article: VA announces disaster assistance, resources for veterans affected by Hurricane MiltonThe United States Department of Veterans Affairs announced several resources for veterans who were impacted by Hurricane Milton.
News 6 receives honors for coverage of Purple Heart national convention
Read full article: News 6 receives honors for coverage of Purple Heart national conventionSeveral members of the News 6 team were honored this week by the Military Order of the Purple Heart for their coverage of the organization's national convention in July.
Veterans trade volunteer hours for college education at this Orlando nonprofit
Read full article: Veterans trade volunteer hours for college education at this Orlando nonprofitThe nonprofit gives veterans, who have either exhausted or want to save their VA Educational Benefits, an opportunity to have their college tuition paid for in exchange for volunteering.
Veteran-crafted & Barstool president approved: Pizza shop to open in Ocoee
Read full article: Veteran-crafted & Barstool president approved: Pizza shop to open in OcoeeAward-winning Key Lime pie, a New York WaterMaker and Boar’s Head meat are some of the key ingredients that make Coast to Coast Pizza Company successful.
Father reflects on 15 years caring for veteran son injured in combat
Read full article: Father reflects on 15 years caring for veteran son injured in combatA U.S. Army Ranger veteran who was injured in combat back in 2009 is sharing his story alongside his father, who has been his caregiver for the last 15 years.
Purple Heart recipients visit Orlando. Here’s why nation’s bravest are in town
Read full article: Purple Heart recipients visit Orlando. Here’s why nation’s bravest are in townHundreds of our nation’s bravest men and women are in town for the Military Order of the Purple Heart’s 91st Annual Conference.
‘Giving back what I was given:’ Tuskegee Airman teaches teens about legacy, piloting
Read full article: ‘Giving back what I was given:’ Tuskegee Airman teaches teens about legacy, pilotingStudents who are part of a summer enrichment program are getting hands-on experience with emerging technologies while also learning lessons about the past.
Author, former Navy sub commander ‘Navy Bob’ carried ‘Nuclear Football’ for President George W. Bush
Read full article: Author, former Navy sub commander ‘Navy Bob’ carried ‘Nuclear Football’ for President George W. BushRobert Ronscka spent 28 years in the Navy leading men and women while being in charge of 10 Los Angeles class nuclear submarines, but he’s on a new mission as a speaker and author.
Orlando Army veteran fights for LGBTQ rights through drag performance
Read full article: Orlando Army veteran fights for LGBTQ rights through drag performanceLake Eola is where the pride parade ends and downtown is home to many LGBTQ+ organizations.Darcel Stevens is an advocate for the gay community, a veteran, and a performer.
This lakefront home will soon provide hope for homeless women veterans
Read full article: This lakefront home will soon provide hope for homeless women veteransThe 4,000-square-foot home is the latest project being built by Villagers For Veterans. Ashley’s House will be a transition home for women veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Male breast cancer among 3 new types added by VA to list of presumptive service connections
Read full article: Male breast cancer among 3 new types added by VA to list of presumptive service connectionsThe U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is including three new cancer types to the list of presumed service-connected disabilities due to military environmental exposure.
‘Freedom isn’t free:’ Trooper Steve and News 6 photojournalist reflect on Honor Flight trip
Read full article: ‘Freedom isn’t free:’ Trooper Steve and News 6 photojournalist reflect on Honor Flight tripTrooper Steve and James 'Goose' Gosselin explain why this assignment is one of the highlights of their respective careers
‘Just glad to get up to age 100:’ Seminole County World War II vet honored with Quilt of Valor
Read full article: ‘Just glad to get up to age 100:’ Seminole County World War II vet honored with Quilt of ValorIt’s a special honor for a special guy during a special time. Peter Durante is celebrating his 100th birthday this week.
Love of history, appetite to learn drives Marine Corps veteran to earn PhD, start own business
Read full article: Love of history, appetite to learn drives Marine Corps veteran to earn PhD, start own businessJodie Sweezey discovered military history in her teens, but waited until after she graduated college to join the military, a decision partly shaped by her father who served in Vietnam.
‘What are we? Heroes:’ Trooper Steve and News 6 photojournalist go on Honor Flight to honor our veterans
Read full article: ‘What are we? Heroes:’ Trooper Steve and News 6 photojournalist go on Honor Flight to honor our veteransTrooper Steve and photojournalist James 'Goose' Gosselin document their 19-hour mission to honor our heroes
French children hail D-Day veterans as heroes as they arrive in Normandy for anniversary events
Read full article: French children hail D-Day veterans as heroes as they arrive in Normandy for anniversary eventsFrench schoolchildren have greeted dozens of U.S. World War II veterans with a big poster saying ‘’thank you'' as they arrived on Monday in Normandy.
US seeking ‘citizen archivists’ to help transcribe American Revolution pension records
Read full article: US seeking ‘citizen archivists’ to help transcribe American Revolution pension recordsThe National Park Service and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) are collaborating on a project to transcribe the pension records of more than 80,000 of America’s first veterans and their widows.
'All-American hero:' Fallen veterans honored on Memorial Day at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery
Read full article: 'All-American hero:' Fallen veterans honored on Memorial Day at Cape Canaveral National CemeteryCape Canaveral National Cemetery hosted its annual Memorial Day ceremony Monday honoring local veterans and their families who attended the somber event.
Man on mission to share World War II hero stories visits 100-year-old Central Florida veteran
Read full article: Man on mission to share World War II hero stories visits 100-year-old Central Florida veteranRishi Sharma runs a non-profit and YouTube channel called “Remember World War II with Rishi Sharma”
This Army vet liked to fix cars as a hobby. Now he’s helping low-income families move forward
Read full article: This Army vet liked to fix cars as a hobby. Now he’s helping low-income families move forwardWe rely on our cars for just about everything. Most of us need one to get to work, the grocery store, and our medical appointments. For those living paycheck to paycheck, a costly repair can be a disaster. This week’s Getting Results Award winner is donating his time to those who can least afford an unexpected breakdown.
‘It was worth it’: Service dog puppy raiser advocates for more puppy raiser volunteers
Read full article: ‘It was worth it’: Service dog puppy raiser advocates for more puppy raiser volunteersPatriot Service Dogs is looking for 10 volunteers on the Space Coast for their two-month Service Dog Summer School
‘Basic geometry:’ How this Central Florida Army veteran became a self-taught origami artist
Read full article: ‘Basic geometry:’ How this Central Florida Army veteran became a self-taught origami artistRodriquez Benjamin, 40, spent 6 years in the U.S. Army, including two deployments in Iraq – the first for 15 months and the second for 14 months.
Stars and Stripes flying again at Titusville veterans center where man stole US flag
Read full article: Stars and Stripes flying again at Titusville veterans center where man stole US flagThe U.S. flag is flying once again in front of the Disabled American Veterans chapter in Titusville where a man stole a flag last week.
Central Florida Navy veteran searches world’s waters to recover remains of lost service members
Read full article: Central Florida Navy veteran searches world’s waters to recover remains of lost service membersJohn Marsack isn’t in the military anymore, but this U.S. Navy veteran continues to serve his country in a heroic way.
Lou Conter, last survivor of USS Arizona from Pearl Harbor attack, dies at 102
Read full article: Lou Conter, last survivor of USS Arizona from Pearl Harbor attack, dies at 102Lou Conter, the last living survivor of the USS Arizona battleship that exploded and sank during the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, has died.
From major to mogul: How one woman took lessons from the Army to build her business
Read full article: From major to mogul: How one woman took lessons from the Army to build her businessSonja Stribling talks about her 21-year military career, transforming her life and helping thousands of women do the same.
UCF organization provides space to serve women veterans on campus
Read full article: UCF organization provides space to serve women veterans on campusFounded by senior business management major Alexandria Marcellus, the Women Veterans Association is dedicated to empowering female veterans and fostering a supportive network on campus.
Organization helps veterans with free transportation around Central Florida
Read full article: Organization helps veterans with free transportation around Central FloridaAndy is extremely passionate about serving veterans and is well-versed about their needs and how people can get involved through volunteering, especially with our biggest volunteer need, the DAV transportation network.
‘It’s life-impacting:’ Florida veterans receive millions in backpay, plus monthly benefits
Read full article: ‘It’s life-impacting:’ Florida veterans receive millions in backpay, plus monthly benefitsSome Seminole County veterans now have extra money in their pockets thanks to Seminole County Veterans' Services.
‘There’s no disability on that ice:’ Army veteran is one of the best para bobsledders in the world
Read full article: ‘There’s no disability on that ice:’ Army veteran is one of the best para bobsledders in the world“Once I gave my life to God, I started to show up to things,” Will Castillo said. “I kept showing up and kept showing up and eventually, I ended up going to the top of the track. Now I compete throughout the world representing the U.S.A.”
‘We keep our promises to the men and women who serve:’ How DAV aims to help more veterans this year
Read full article: ‘We keep our promises to the men and women who serve:’ How DAV aims to help more veterans this yearDAV helps veterans get their benefits, and offers several assistance programs on everything from careers to medical appointment transportation
Central Florida veterans find camaraderie through USTA’s Military Tennis Program
Read full article: Central Florida veterans find camaraderie through USTA’s Military Tennis ProgramMarc Spittler and Henry Pruitt served their country at different times, and in different branches of services, but both have found that military camaraderie again through the Military Tennis Program.
Leesburg WWII soldier buried Sunday 80 years after his death
Read full article: Leesburg WWII soldier buried Sunday 80 years after his deathA World War II soldier for Leesburg will get a hero’s welcome home procession and be buried with full military honors Sunday, 80 years after he was killed in action.
‘Here’s Hope:’ K9s For Warriors helps husband, wife Air Force veterans find themselves again
Read full article: ‘Here’s Hope:’ K9s For Warriors helps husband, wife Air Force veterans find themselves againAshley and Daniel McCaffrey are both U.S. Air Force veterans who not only share the bond of marriage, but the understanding of the trauma that can sometimes come with defending our country.
Christmas tree coming down? This Eustis man will turn it into a cane for a veteran
Read full article: Christmas tree coming down? This Eustis man will turn it into a cane for a veteranChristmas is over, the ornaments have been taken down and put away, but the trees can enjoy a new life as a cane for a veteran at Oscar Morris’ workshop in Eustis.
Gary Sinise Foundation hosts more than 700 families of fallen military heroes at Disney World
Read full article: Gary Sinise Foundation hosts more than 700 families of fallen military heroes at Disney WorldMore than 700 families of fallen military heroes are being honored at Walt Disney World Resort ahead of the holiday season.
'Thank Him,' 104-year-old WWII vet celebrates birthday with city of Oviedo
Read full article: 'Thank Him,' 104-year-old WWII vet celebrates birthday with city of OviedoA World War II veteran is turning 104 years old, and on Saturday Oviedo and Seminole County residents turned out to wish him a happy birthday.
‘The man that bullets couldn’t stop:’ Author writes book of his father’s WWII heroism
Read full article: ‘The man that bullets couldn’t stop:’ Author writes book of his father’s WWII heroismAuthor Walt Larimore expands on At First Light, which tells the true story of a World War II hero, his bravery and an amazing horse
‘Fell in love with this place:’ Navy veteran finds his place helping students, veterans at UCF
Read full article: ‘Fell in love with this place:’ Navy veteran finds his place helping students, veterans at UCFNot sure what to do after high school, Matt Winstel and a friend joined the U.S. Navy on the buddy program and “the rest was 26 years of Naval lore.”
‘A big job’: Nephew reacts after remains of missing Leesburg WWII soldier are ID’d
Read full article: ‘A big job’: Nephew reacts after remains of missing Leesburg WWII soldier are ID’dStaff Sgt. Franklin Hall was 21 years old when he died. His remains were identified earlier this year — around 80 years after his death.
‘I wanted to fill up the room,’ Disabled veteran, family helps foster kids have merry Christmas
Read full article: ‘I wanted to fill up the room,’ Disabled veteran, family helps foster kids have merry ChristmasAn Orange County veteran has spent the past year buying toys, leading up to Giving Tuesday. Her goal is to help foster families this holiday season.
Volusia County veteran remembers time providing security for former first lady Rosalynn Carter
Read full article: Volusia County veteran remembers time providing security for former first lady Rosalynn CarterA retired Air Force veteran now living in Volusia County reminisces on his time providing security for former first lady Rosalynn Carter.
Remains of a WWII heavy bomber gunner from Central Florida identified nearly 80 years after his death
Read full article: Remains of a WWII heavy bomber gunner from Central Florida identified nearly 80 years after his deathMiliary officials say a U.S. Army Air Force gunner’s remains have been accounted for nearly eight decades after the heavy bomber he was flying in was shot down over France during World War II.
‘I lost it all’: Fire destroys Volusia County veteran’s home, kills service dogs
Read full article: ‘I lost it all’: Fire destroys Volusia County veteran’s home, kills service dogsWednesday, Kerry Sprague's life changed in an instant. The Coast Guard veteran was at work when she got a devastating phone call from her neighbor.
Disney volunteers help get results for veterans ahead of the holidays
Read full article: Disney volunteers help get results for veterans ahead of the holidaysIt's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Orlando Fisher House in Lake Nona. From Christmas trees to wreaths, all of it was donated by Walt Disney World.
Not all servicemembers have voting protections. Rep. Frost wants to change that
Read full article: Not all servicemembers have voting protections. Rep. Frost wants to change thatDuring a news conference Monday, Rep. Maxwell Frost announced the Voting Overseas Treated Equally for Servicemembers (VOTES) Act.