Fred Robinson Awarded Inaugural Orange County Veteran of the Year

Fred Robinson Awarded Inaugural Orange County Veteran of the Year

The Orange County Mayor's Veterans Advisory Council's Veteran of the Year Committee recently selected Sgt. Fred Robinson, USMC, Retired, as the recipient of the Orange County Veteran of the Year Award 2023 for his exceptional service and dedication to veterans and his continued willingness to serve the community.

As Chair of the Orange County Mayor's Veterans Advisory Council, Robinson has been at the forefront for the advancement of active-duty military and veterans. He has an impressive history of service to generations of veterans in Central Florida and has served on several Congressional policy advisory boards that impact large veteran communities in Central Florida.

"It makes me proud that I've been recognized by my peers and the veterans' community for the dedication and work I've done to make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families," said Robinson. "It's been a humbling experience to work with these dynamic individuals."

The Advisory Council determined that honoring a local veteran with this annual award was the right thing to do given the tireless efforts of so many veterans who make significant contributions to Orange County veterans, military members and their families.

"It's always an honor to recognize those who serve or have served in the military to protect our freedoms," said Mayor Jerry L. Demings, "and it was a special honor to give this award to Sgt. Fred Robinson, who not only served his country with distinction, but who continues to selflessly serve others."

Comprised of military members, veterans service organizations and community partners, the Advisory Council's function is to advise Mayor Demings on issues of importance to military members, veterans and their families based on input from the veteran community. The Council also communicates with various groups relative to veteran's issues and promotes veteran-related events and functions within the County.

"We're always looking for ways to raise the bar to educate, as well as provide new resources, updated information and services," explained Robinson. "We're constantly advocating for our senior veterans who deal with challenges and who don't have the support or resources to secure the benefits and services they've earned."

Robinson stressed how important it is to work together as a community and combine resources in order to provide veterans with all their specific needs.

"We (veterans) joined the military because we wanted to be a part of something bigger than ourselves," he asserted. "There's always information being shared between the different organizations that are part of the Council and others that attend our meetings We collaborate on events and ceremonies, and Council membership is diverse and inclusive like our military."

If you are interested in participating in the Orange County Mayor's Veterans Advisory Council, please complete the Partnership Application Form.