Gov. Ron DeSantis and several other Florida leaders honored America's service members across social media this week. The governor was also in the military himself, having served in the U.S. Navy from 2004 to 2010.
"A veteran is someone who has written a check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to and including his life," DeSantis wrote. "We appreciate all who have served and are proud that Florida is the nation’s only state where both the Governor and Lieutenant Governor are veterans."
Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, whom the governor mentioned, also honored the day. The lieutenant governor served in the U.S. Army as a Green Beret for over 20 years, including deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan.
"From the beaches of Normandy to the jungles of Vietnam, from the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan, generations of brave men and women have answered our nation’s call," Collins wrote. "They stood in defense of liberty, carried the weight of freedom on their shoulders, and protected the ideals that make America the greatest nation on earth."
Collins had his leg amputated after sustaining injuries in Afghanistan, and eventually received two Purple Hearts for his sacrifice.
"Their courage built the foundation of our republic. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom is never free. It is earned and preserved by those willing to serve something greater than themselves," Collins continued. "To every veteran and every family who has endured the long nights, the deployments, and the uncertainty of war, we offer our deepest gratitude. You represent the best of who we are as Americans."
"As a Navy veteran and the son of a World War II veteran, I know firsthand the service and sacrifice it takes, so let me be the first to say THANK YOU to our brave heroes who have served our country and defended our freedoms," Florida Sen. Rick Scott (R) added.
Florida Congressman Byron Donalds (R) also commemorated the day.
"Today, we salute the heroes who courageously put their lives on the line in defense of our nation, our values, & our way of life," Donalds wrote. "God bless our veterans, God bless their families, & to all who served our nation: We wish you a Happy Veterans Day & we thank you for your service!"
Florida GOP Chairman Evan Power added that "generations of brave men and women have answered the call to defend our freedom. Florida proudly stands as the most veteran-friendly state in the nation, where service is honored, freedom is cherished, and patriotism runs deep. Thank you to all who served."
