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Operation Thank You Attracts Veterans and Politicians

Tom Flanigan

Leon County hosted its yearly Operation Thank You breakfast for military veterans at the Sauls Bridges Post 13 American Legion Hall on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11. The event was also a chance for local, state and federal politicians to show their support for those who served.

Fifth District Congressman Al Lawson talked about his new jobs bills for veterans.

"I'm getting a lot of help across the aisle from Republicans who feel that these are some great ideas they want to work with," he remarked, explaining the measures would set up agricultural apprenticeships and support entrepreneurship in depressed communities and neighborhoods.

Former Second District Congresswoman, now Democratic Candidate for Governor Gwen Graham, spoke of her long-standing connection with vets.

"They know me and they know that I will continue to be a voice and work hard on their behalf," she said. "But I'm also looking forward to be able to work hard for veterans across the state of Florida."

And Leon County Commission Chair John Dailey suggested anything is possible, IF the money is there. "I don't know if the feds, the state and the local government can actually do enough, but we're doing everything we can with the resources that we have."

The county estimates some 19,000 military veterans call the Tallahassee area home.

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Tom Flanigan has been with WFSU News since 2006, focusing on covering local personalities, issues, and organizations. He began his broadcast career more than 30 years before that and covered news for several radio stations in Florida, Texas, and his home state of Maryland.

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