Orange County Honors 250 Years of U.S. Military Service

Ceremony celebrates veterans and unveils Veteran of the Year Plaque

WHAT:
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings will host a special ceremony honoring the legacy, valor, and dedication of service members from all branches of the United States Armed Forces over 250 years including U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The ceremony will include the unveiling of the Veteran of the Year Plaque, which will be permanently installed at the Orange County Regional History Center to honor local veterans.

The ceremony will feature remarks by Mayor Demings, Orange County Regional History Center Manager Azela Santana, Orange County Veterans Service Officer Alnita Whitt, and the Mayor's Orange County Veterans Advisory Council Chair Fred Robinson. A military cake-cutting ceremony will conclude the event.

WHEN:
Friday, November 7, 2025
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
(Media check-in begins at 1:00 p.m.)

WHERE:
Orange County Regional History Center
65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801

PHOTO/VIDEO OPPORTUNITIES:
Unveiling of the Veteran of the Year Plaque
Mayor Demings with Orange County Commissioners and 2023 and 2024 Veterans of the Year
Military cake-cutting ceremony featuring veterans representing the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps

ABOUT THE ORANGE COUNTY VETERAN OF THE YEAR AWARD:
The Orange County Veteran of the Year Award honors a local veteran who has made outstanding contributions to the well-being of veterans, service members, and their families in our community. Established in 2023 by the Orange County Veterans Advisory Council, the annual award recognizes one veteran each year for exceptional service, continued dedication, and an enduring commitment to serving others beyond military duty.

Nominations open each November, and the award is presented every April.

The Orange County Regional History Center will offer free admission for veterans from November 7-11 and free admission for veterans and their families on Veterans Day, November 11.

For more information about the Orange County Veteran of the Year Award, visit https://www.ocfl.net/VeteranoftheYear.