TALLAHASSEE – Mike Mason has been appointed chairman of the Florida Veterans Foundation. Mason, who serves as Polk County’s Supervisor of Veterans Services, was appointed to a three-year term by Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Executive Director Glenn Sutphin.
He succeeds retired Army Col. Washington Sanchez, who retired on March 1, 2017.
Mason, a Purple Heart and Bronze Star with “V” for Valor recipient, was an Army Medic during the Vietnam War. Following a 30-year career in the steel industry, Mason retired to Florida in 2004. In addition to serving in his current position in Polk County, he has held leadership roles in the American Legion, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and County Veteran Service Officer Association of Florida.
“Mike’s background, knowledge and experience make him a perfect fit for this role,” said Sutphin. “Having served with distinction in so many veteran-support initiatives in Florida, he’ll provide new energy and focus to assist Florida veterans in need.”
The Florida Veterans Foundation was established by the legislature in 2008 as a direct support organization of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. The non-profit organization provides emergency assistance to veterans who are experiencing financial difficulties that cannot be resolved by the veteran or other veteran service organizations.
For more information, visit http://www.helpflvets.org/ or call (850) 488-4181.