With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Women Veterans Chair Deborah D. “Debbie” Wheeler of Dunedin, Florida. Debbie passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 66.
Service details are not yet available. Updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.
Debbie was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran of the Lebanon/Grenada era and a devoted member of Dunedin Post 275. She faithfully served The American Legion for 30 continuous years.
Throughout her many years of dedicated service, Debbie served as Post Service Officer from 2019 through 2025, Post 2nd Vice Commander from 2021 through 2022, Department Women Veterans Chair from 2019 through 2022, and Department Women Veterans Vice Chair from 2022 through 2023. She also served as a member of National’s Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Council from 2015 through 2016 and the National Security Council from 2018 through 2025.
In the Department of West Virginia, Debbie served as Department Oratorical Chair and 3rd District Commander in 2001.
Please keep Debbie’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Finance Chair Robert D. “Bob” Plafchan of Avon Park, Florida. Bob passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 84.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Plafchan. The family has elected to honor Bob’s wishes, and no services or events will be held following his passing.
Bob was a proud U.S. Navy veteran and a devoted member of Avon Park Post 69. He faithfully served The American Legion for 28 continuous years.
Throughout his many years of dedicated service, Bob served as Post Finance Officer from 2020 through 2021, District 8 Adjutant from 2014 through 2024, and as a member of the Department Finance Committee from 2019 through 2025. He also served as Chair of the Department Finance Committee from 2024 through 2025.
Condolences may be sent to his wife at:
Carol Plafchan
1628 W. Orangewood Ct.
Avon Park, FL 33828
Please keep Bob’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Dear Post Commanders, Adjutants, Finance Officers, and Post Leadership,
As many of you know, the Department Legislative Team continues to actively advocate on behalf of The American Legion and other charitable organizations to ensure that veterans’ organizations have a place in Florida’s evolving electronic fundraising environment. We recognize the importance of these fundraising opportunities and remain committed to pursuing legislative solutions that support our mission while protecting the integrity of our programs.
While these efforts continue, it is imperative that all Posts strictly adhere to current Florida law regarding gaming, electronic gaming devices, and fundraising activities.
Recently, the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has increased enforcement efforts throughout the state and has issued warning notices to businesses and organizations suspected of operating activities that may violate Florida gaming statutes. These notices serve as a reminder that violations can result in criminal penalties, fines, and potential forfeiture of property used in connection with unlawful gaming activities.
Please remember:
Do not assume that a device, game, or fundraising activity is legal simply because it is operating elsewhere in the state.
Before entering into any agreement involving electronic gaming, electronic raffle systems, sweepstakes devices, or similar equipment, ensure that the activity complies with current Florida law.
When in doubt, seek guidance before proceeding.
If Your Post Is Contacted by the Florida Gaming Control Commission
If your Post receives any communication from the Florida Gaming Control Commission, law enforcement, or any regulatory agency regarding gaming or fundraising activities, please notify the Department immediately.
Include your Post number, city, and a point of contact.
Collecting this information is critical. It allows us to better understand enforcement trends occurring across the state and provides valuable information as we continue our legislative advocacy efforts on behalf of Florida’s veterans organizations.
Our goal remains unchanged: to pursue lawful and sustainable fundraising opportunities that support Posts while protecting the reputation and mission of The American Legion.
Thank you for your continued diligence and cooperation. If you have questions regarding a proposed fundraising activity or receive any regulatory correspondence, please contact us immediately.
For God and Country,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
Department of Florida
The American Legion
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Career Expo Coming to Jacksonville
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will host a DHS Career Expo in Jacksonville, Florida, on June 16–17, 2026, offering job seekers an opportunity to explore a wide range of career paths dedicated to protecting and serving the nation.
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, located at 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204. Attendees will have the chance to learn about career opportunities across multiple DHS components and mission areas, including:
Business Operations
Budget and Finance
Cybersecurity
General Attorney
Human Resources
Immigration Services
Intelligence
Law Enforcement
Law Enforcement Instructors
Logistics
Mission Support
Program Management
Transportation Security
Whether you are an experienced professional, recent graduate, or someone looking to begin a meaningful career in public service, the DHS Career Expo provides valuable information about careers that support homeland security efforts by air, land, sea, and cyberspace.
For additional information and event details, visit DHS.gov/Homeland-Security-Careers/Expo or contact dhsrecruitment@hq.dhs.gov.
Event Details
Dates: June 16–17, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET
Location: Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, 1000 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with DHS recruiters and discover how you can build a career that makes a difference while helping safeguard our nation’s future.
With an amendment filed on 5/26/26, the Boys State and Girls State appropriations requests have officially made it into the final version of the Florida state budget!
This is a tremendous victory … and it happened because of YOU.
Thank you to every Legionnaire, supporter, volunteer, and advocate who picked up the phone, sent emails, contacted legislators, and stood up for these outstanding programs. Your grassroots efforts made a real impact, and together we helped carry this across the finish line.
Boys State and Girls State continue to shape future leaders across Florida by teaching citizenship, leadership, civic responsibility, and public service. Because of your advocacy, these life-changing programs will continue inspiring the next generation for years to come.
This accomplishment is a powerful reminder that when The American Legion family comes together, our voices are heard.
We now await the Governor’s signature and remain optimistic for final approval.
Thank you again for your passion, dedication, and unwavering support of our youth and our mission.
For God and Country,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
The American Legion
As Florida’s legislative budget negotiations continue, funding for Boys State and Girls State is no longer included in the current budget offers. Immediate grassroots advocacy is now critical to ensuring these premier youth leadership programs receive full funding.
The American Legion Department of Florida is calling on all members, Posts, Districts, and supporters to take action immediately by contacting key legislative leaders and urging them to support funding for these vital programs.
This effort requires more than leadership engagement — it requires a united voice from across our membership. Every phone call matters, and every message carries weight during the final stages of the budget process.
Contact Legislative Leaders Today
Please respectfully ask legislative leaders to support full funding for Boys State and Girls State by contacting:
Florida House Speaker — (850) 717-5116
Florida Senate President — (850) 487-5027
Senate Budget Chair — (850) 487-5021
House Budget Chair — (850) 717-5027
When making your calls, please reference:
Senate Appropriation 2602
House Appropriation 2799
Referencing these appropriations helps legislative staff quickly identify the funding requests during conference negotiations.
Why These Programs Matter
For decades, Boys State and Girls State have provided hands-on civic education and leadership development opportunities for high school students across Florida. These programs teach the principles of government, citizenship, leadership, and public service while helping shape future military leaders, veterans, elected officials, and community leaders.
These are among the finest youth leadership programs supported by The American Legion, and their continued success depends on our advocacy today.
Your Voice Matters
If we want Boys State and Girls State funded appropriately, now is the time to speak up.
We encourage every member to answer the call and help advocate for our youth, our veterans, and our communities.
For God and Country,
Stuart Scott Legislative Chair The American Legion Department of Florida
The spirit of patriotism was on full display in High Point as residents, veterans, and local organizations gathered to celebrate Independence Day with a lively community parade and heartfelt tributes honoring America’s freedoms.
Residents lined the streets to watch the annual High Point Independence Day Parade, which featured decorated golf carts, floats, antique cars, motorcycles, and community groups proudly displaying red, white, and blue. The event highlighted the close-knit nature of the High Point community and the dedication of local volunteers who helped make the celebration possible.
Serving as Grand Marshal was Angie Vacca, recognized for her continued service and involvement within the community. Organizers praised her efforts in supporting local activities such as the Vendors’ Faire, Drum Fitness, and Cancer Walk programs. Community members described her as someone who is always willing to help wherever needed and credited her positive attitude for encouraging participation in community events.
Following the parade, participants gathered at the Veterans Memorial outside the High Point Community Center for an Honor Guard Ceremony and posting of the colors. The ceremony offered a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by American service members and added a meaningful patriotic tone to the day’s festivities.
The celebration continued inside the Community Center with refreshments, fellowship, and awards recognizing standout parade entries. Winners were announced in multiple categories, including golf carts, floats, antique cars, motorcycles, and community organizations. Local veterans groups and civic organizations were among those honored for their participation and creativity.
Organizers noted that despite operating on a short timeline, the event was considered a major success thanks to strong community support and participation. Donations from local businesses also helped support a silent auction held during the festivities, further demonstrating the generosity and involvement of area residents and business owners.
The High Point Golf Club concluded the holiday celebration by hosting a community barbecue, giving attendees another opportunity to gather with neighbors and celebrate Independence Day together.
Events like the High Point Independence Day Parade continue to showcase the importance of community pride, patriotism, and honoring veterans who have served the nation. Through parades, ceremonies, and fellowship, residents came together to celebrate both America’s independence and the strong bonds that unite their community.
More than eight decades after one of World War II’s most inspiring acts of heroism, the story of the Four Chaplains continues to remind Americans of the power of unity, compassion, and selfless sacrifice.
On February 3, 1943, the USAT Dorchester was carrying hundreds of soldiers across the icy North Atlantic when it was struck by a German torpedo. Chaos erupted as the ship rapidly began to sink into the freezing waters near Greenland. In the midst of fear and confusion, four Army chaplains from different faiths stepped forward to calm frightened servicemen and help save lives.
The four men — Reverend George L. Fox, Reverend Clark V. Poling, Father John P. Washington, and Rabbi Alexander D. Goode — represented Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish faith traditions. Despite their different backgrounds, they worked together as one, offering prayers, encouragement, and comfort to the soldiers aboard the doomed vessel.
As life jackets ran out, the chaplains made the ultimate sacrifice by removing their own and giving them to others. Witnesses later recalled seeing the four men standing arm in arm on the deck of the sinking ship, praying together as the Dorchester disappeared beneath the icy sea.
Only 230 of the approximately 900 men aboard survived the disaster. The courage displayed by the Four Chaplains quickly became a symbol of faith, unity, and patriotism throughout the nation. They were posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart for their extraordinary heroism.
Communities across America continue to honor their memory each year through memorial services and ceremonies. In Hernando County, local veterans organizations, faith leaders, and community members recently gathered to commemorate the 83rd anniversary of the tragedy. The ceremony featured veterans portraying each chaplain, candle-lighting tributes, patriotic music, and prayers for peace.
The legacy of the Four Chaplains remains especially meaningful today. Their story transcends religion, politics, and background, reminding us that courage and compassion can unite people even during humanity’s darkest moments.
As Americans continue to honor those who have served our nation, the Four Chaplains stand as enduring examples of sacrifice, service, and love for others.
Governor Issues Proclamation Honoring Florida’s Fallen Service Members
The proclamation recognizes Memorial Day as a time to honor those who gave their lives in service to the United States and calls on Floridians to observe a moment of silence.
Tallahassee, Fla. — May 2026
Governor Ron DeSantis has issued a proclamation designating Monday, May 25, 2026, as Memorial Day in Florida, recognizing the service and sacrifice of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
The proclamation notes that Memorial Day has been observed since 1868 and emphasizes the debt of gratitude owed to fallen service members. It also recognizes Gold Star Families and encourages Floridians to take part in ceremonies, activities, and programs that honor the contributions of the nation’s fallen warriors.
Florida is home to nearly 1.4 million veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, making it the most veteran-friendly state in the nation, according to the proclamation.
As part of the observance, the Governor asks all Florida residents to pause for a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026. The proclamation also directs all national and state flags in Florida to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise until noon in memory of fallen heroes of the armed forces.
Download the proclamation
View or download the official Memorial Day in Florida proclamation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis.
The Florida American Legion Riders are once again taking to the road with a powerful purpose: raising awareness and support for veteran suicide prevention.
Riders from across the state recently traveled through Bay County as part of a broader mission to bring attention to the ongoing mental health crisis affecting veterans. The effort is tied to the Florida American Legion Riders’ In-State Unity Ride, an annual multi-day event that combines camaraderie, visibility, and fundraising to support life-saving programs.
Riding with Purpose
The Unity Ride is more than a motorcycle event—it is a coordinated statewide initiative designed to engage communities, honor veterans, and generate critical funding for suicide prevention efforts. Riders make scheduled stops at American Legion posts and community locations, using each opportunity to connect with the public and share resources.
At its core, the ride supports PROJECT: VetRelief’s Suicide Prevention Initiative, which provides funding for programs that assist veterans facing mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress and reintegration difficulties.
Addressing a Critical Issue
Veteran suicide remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the military community. The Unity Ride is part of a larger effort to confront that reality through awareness, outreach, and direct support for proven programs.
Through partnerships and a vetted network of service providers, PROJECT: VetRelief helps ensure veterans have access to counseling, peer support, service animals, and other critical interventions tailored to their needs.
Community Impact
As Riders pass through communities like those in Bay County, their presence serves as both a tribute and a call to action. The initiative encourages local residents, businesses, and organizations to get involved—whether by donating, participating, or simply helping spread awareness.
The American Legion Riders program itself is built on service and community engagement, uniting members who are committed to supporting veterans, their families, and their communities nationwide.
How to Support
The Florida American Legion Riders emphasize that anyone can contribute to the mission:
Participate in future rides or events
Donate to suicide prevention initiatives
Share information and resources within your community
Every mile ridden and every dollar raised helps expand access to programs that can save lives.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Women Veterans Chair Deborah D. “Debbie” Wheeler of Dunedin, Florida. Debbie passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 66.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Finance Chair Robert D. “Bob” Plafchan of Avon Park, Florida. Bob passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 84.