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News

Gov. Scott Honors 136 Veterans at Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Nursing Home

September 6, 2013

LopezScottVisit_smLAND O’ LAKES – Joined by Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw Jr. and Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Deputy Executive Director, Retired Army Col. Al Carter, Gov. Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott awarded 136 Florida veterans with the Governor’s Veterans Service Award Sept. 5 for their service to Florida and the nation.

Governor Scott said, “Our veterans are fearless heroes that have made countless sacrifices for Florida families and it is important that we take the time to frequently honor and thank them for their courage and their service.  We will forever be indebted to our veterans for their service, and this medal will serve as a testament of our thanks from Floridians everywhere.”

The ceremony was held at the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Nursing Home in Land O’ Lakes, one of six state veterans’ nursing homes operated by the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs.  During the ceremony, Governor Scott highlighted the service of Florida veteran, Sgt. 1st Class Angel Torres-Mendez.

Sgt. 1st Class Angel Torres-Mendez served in the U.S. Army from 1947-1974.  During that time, he volunteered for Special Forces and completed his training at Fort Bragg, N.C.  He was a Green Beret in Vietnam for three years and completed a total of 18 missions.  He received numerous medals including the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Parachute Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and four Good Conduct Medals.  Today, Sergeant Torres-Mendez often volunteers at local schools and veterans’ events.

Florida Veterans Medal

The “Governor’s Veterans Service Award” honors Floridians who have served in the U.S. Military. The front of the medal depicts the Great Seal of the State of Florida. The back of the medal displays the five seals representing the five branches of U.S. Military with an inscription that reads “Honoring Those Who Served.”

 

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