Crist

Dear Friends,

This week we celebrated those who have answered the call to protect, defend and preserve the freedoms and liberties that we as Americans enjoy today.

We must always remember the nearly 1.8 million veterans who call the Sunshine State home. They have risked their lives to serve their country – and we are proud they have chosen to live in Florida.

This summer, I was proud to sign legislation that creates a preference instate contracting for small businesses owned by service-disabled
veterans. This law encourages veterans to start businesses and achieve their dreamsafter their service. By helping them rebuild their lives, we show
them we arebehind them 100 percent.

This week I was pleased to honor Lt. Colonel Alton Yates – from Jacksonville – with the Medal of Merit Award. The medal is the
highest military honor I can bestow – and he is much deserving of it. Colonel Yates has dedicated his life to public service and to ensuring
our freedom. He is an Air Force pioneer whose bravery helped advance our country’s space exploration efforts.

His record ofmilitary and community service are a reminder of why Florida is so fortunate to have so many men andwomen who serve so that all of us
can enjoy the freedoms we hold so dear.

God bless you and God bless Florida.

Charlie Crist