Mayor Maria Sachs has shown an ongoing dedication to addressing the general needs, mental wellness, financial stability, and public respect for veterans. She has always actively participated in events honoring veterans, including Memorial Day ceremonies, Veterans Day observances, and meetings with veteran organizations because she deeply values and respects the sacrifices made by our veterans and has strived to ensure their recognition and support. During her time as a State Senator, Sachs participated in legislative sessions, community engagements, and collaborative partnerships, to continuously advocate for veterans’ rights and recognition. Here are a few examples of her accomplishments during her tenure in the State Legislature:
- Women Veterans and Navy Submariner’s License Plates: Sachs spearheaded initiatives to honor the diverse experiences and contributions of women veterans, as well as submariners, through the introduction of specialized license plates.
- Military and Veterans Affairs: Sachs actively engaged with military and veterans’ affairs committees, leveraging her position to enact policies and legislation that positively impact the lives of service members and veterans.
- Special License Plates for Bronze Star Medal Recipients: Recognizing the valor and sacrifice of Bronze Star Medal recipients, Sachs championed the establishment of special license plates to honor their service.
- Florida Veterans Foundation: Sachs played a pivotal role in supporting the Florida Veterans Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing financial assistance and support services to veterans and their families in times of need.
- New Veterans Success Center at PBSC: Sachs worked to deliver a new facility for veterans in suburban Lake Worth called the New Veterans Success Center at Palm Beach State College (PBSC). This 2,300 square foot state-of-the-art facility aims to provide crucial support and resources for veterans pursuing education and transitioning to civilian life.
As your County Mayor, Maria Sachs remains dedicated to advocating for and assisting veterans, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Through ongoing efforts, collaborative partnerships, and County-wide initiatives, she continues to honor and serve those who bravely served our country. For example, our County’s long-range objective includes the establishment of a Village of Valor for veterans in Palm Beach County. This ambitious project aims to provide comprehensive services, including medical, mental health, and social support, tailored specifically to the needs of our veteran community. By partnering with federal and state agencies, we’re committed to ensuring that every veteran has access to the resources they need to thrive. Mayor Sachs also regularly issues proclamations and assists with veteran-focused initiatives, including:
- Veteran Services Officers Appreciation Month: At the Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 6, 2023, Sachs presented a proclamation declaring June 2023 as Palm Beach County Veteran Services Officers Appreciation Month. The Palm Beach County Veteran Services Division’s outstanding team of officers, including Andy J. Reese, Rohn C. Hultgren, Michelle Macea, and Jason St. John, serve the county’s veterans with respect, equity, compassion, integrity, professionalism, and empowerment.
- Veterans Day Celebration: Palm Beach County is home to approximately 84,000 veterans, making it the third-largest population of veterans in Florida. That is why it is so important that on Veterans Day, our Board of County Commissioners participate in a Veterans Day Program at Veteran’s Memorial Park. During the event, veterans are honored for their incredible faith, not just in our country, but in all of us.
- Palm Beach County Services for Veterans: Sachs is a significant proponent of the Palm Beach County Community Services Department’s Senior and Veteran Services Division, which assists and counsels former and current members of the U.S. armed forces who reside in Palm Beach County. Services include assistance in preparing and filing claims for benefits.
- Veteran Service Dog Day: Sachs presented a proclamation declaring Nov. 7, 2023, as Veteran Service Dog Day in Palm Beach County. Recognizing the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among war veterans, especially, service dogs play a crucial role in alleviating symptoms and improving mental health. Organizations like Semper-Fi Service Dogs provide invaluable support by rescuing shelter dogs and training them to assist military veterans with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or military sexual trauma.
