06/08/2026
🎉Congratulations 🎉
To the America's 250th celebration,
Patriot parade Grand Marshall
⭐Retired U.S. Army Captain Stephen Petty ⭐
Retired United States Army Captain and Marion County resident Stephen Petty has been honored with induction into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame on November 6, 2025, recognizing a lifetime of extraordinary contributions to veteran services, professional achievement, and community leadership. A helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, Captain Petty demonstrated unwavering courage, skill, and leadership under extreme conditions.
Throughout his military career, he earned numerous decorations, highlighted by a Silver Star, Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross with oak leaf cluster, Purple Heart, Air Medal with "V" device and 40 oak leaf clusters, as well as several other prestigious awards. Captain Petty also earned the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, which was awarded to him by the Republic of Vietnam. Over the course of his year-long deployment, Captain Petty logged an impressive 1,261 hours of combat flight time. His actions in combat earned him high recognition, particularly his bravery in the face of enemy fire.
His service extended well past his time on active duty. Captain Petty has demonstrated tireless commitment to veterans, significantly advancing services in Marion County and beyond. He has served as:
· President and Director, Marion County Memorial Honor Guard (MCMHG)
· President, Co-Founder, and Director, Vet Resource Center, Inc.
· CEO and Director, Veterans Helping Veterans USA, Inc. (VHV)
· Active Leader, MOAA Kingdom of the Sun Chapter, Marion County Veterans Council, and the Marion County Commissioners Veterans Board
· Advisor and Collaborator, On Top of the World Veterans Club, Marion County Cancer Alliance, Marion County Community Foundation Business Council, Marion County Continuum of Care, Marion County Hospital District, and first responder agencies
Under Captain Petty’s leadership, MCMHG has achieved operational excellence, performing over 212 military funerals at Florida National Cemetery and 77 community events in 2024 alone. He has personally participated in over 1,000 military funerals and community events, ensuring that veterans are honored with the highest standards of military tradition. His advocacy has strengthened nonprofits supporting veterans, guiding compliance with federal and state regulations, including 501(c)(3) and 1023 filings, and providing emergency services, financial aid, and health resources to more than 50,000 veterans.
Captain Petty has been instrumental in expanding access to medical care, mental health services, housing, and education, particularly for veterans exposed to toxic environments and those not enrolled in the VA healthcare system.
The Florida Veterans Hall of Fame honors individuals whose leadership, service, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on the lives of veterans and their communities. Captain Petty’s career, both military and civilian, embodies this standard. The induction ceremony will take place on November 6, 2025, at the Florida State Capitol Building in Tallahassee, celebrating Captain Petty and four other distinguished veterans who have made a profound difference in Florida.
