Gov. Scott Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Home for Wounded Florida Veteran

Governor Rick Scott attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Florida veteran Master Sergeant George Vera’s new home. Master Sergeant George Vera and his family were previously recognized by Governor Scott during the annual State of the State address, and they will be receiving a mortgage-free home from the not-for-profit organization Building Homes for Heroes. Governor Scott’s Fighting for Florida’s Future budget invested $1 million in Building Homes for Heroes.
Governor Scott said, “Like so many of our brave veterans, Master Sergeant Vera and his family have made incredible sacrifices in order to protect our nation and defend our freedom. While we can never thank them enough for their service, this upcoming Independence Day is a important reminder that we must take every opportunity to recognize these heroes. I was proud to present Master Sergeant Vera with the Governor’s Veterans Service Award today and celebrate the groundbreaking for their future home here in Florida. We want Florida to be the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation, which is why we will continue to make investments in organizations like Building Homes for Heroes.”
Building Homes for Heroes is a not-for-profit organization that builds or modifies homes, and gifts them, mortgage-free, to veterans and their families. Last year, Building Homes for Heroes built or modified 19 homes in Florida, which had a projected value of more than $4 million. The organization partners with more than 300 licensed Florida contractors to build or modify these homes, supporting economic development and the local construction industry. The State of Florida has invested more than $5 million into Building Homes for Heroes since Governor Scott took office.
Florida House Speaker Richard Corcoran said, “As the son of two World War II veterans, it was an honor to join Governor Rick Scott today to recognize one of the many brave heroes who has sacrificed to keep our country safe. I am proud that Master Sergeant George Vera and his family have chosen the beautiful Land O’Lakes as the site of their new home and I look forward to celebrating the home’s completion. We will continue to support organizations like Building Homes for Heroes that help our military members as they protect our families and our freedom.”
Master Sergeant Vera joined the Army in 1995. In 2015, his 20th year of service, Sergeant Vera’s base was attacked by suicide bombers using an improvised explosive device (IED). Master Sergeant Vera fought to pull his fellow wounded soldiers away from enemy fire and was shot during his efforts to secure the perimeter. Master Sergeant Vera has been awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and Purple Heart and multiple other heroic commendations.