If you are reading this message—I have made it to the Land of Enchantment. In the coming weeks, I will start documenting how to build a coalition from the ground up with ZERO contacts in the Veteran community. More information to follow.
In other news, each Commanders Coalition Outpost can be named after a deceased Veteran. I would like to name Outpost 1 after Major John Haynes. Major Haynes was well respected among multiple VSO’s and I do believe Outpost 1 should honor his legacy.
If you do not know who John Haynes was, I invite you to read his Florida Veterans Hall of Fame Bio.
If anyone wants to submit any other names, the inbox is open. I’ll close the nominations next Friday.
Last week I sent out an email regarding our inaugural giving campaign and forgot to attach the link to the image. Despite my shortcomings, people still managed to find the page and donate. THANK YOU. Receipts will be sent soon.
We have managed to reach 38% of our goal!
https://givebutter.com/coalitionstartup
Live long and prosper
Edward W. Hood
National Commander
Commanders Coalition
The donated razors from Patriot Shave found their way into the hands of many at risk Veterans in need of a quality shave. Thank you Patriot Shave.
Toys for Tots has started. More information to follow
Honoring Heroes: Veterans Playlist Drops Tribute Track for Navy’s 250th anniversary.
ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts is a powerful financial tool designed to support individuals with disabilities, including many of our state’s veterans.
What is an ABLE Account?
Established under the federal ABLE Act of 2014, ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts that allow eligible individuals to save and invest for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing their eligibility for critical benefits such as Medicaid or SSI. Funds can be used for a wide range of qualified expenses, including housing, healthcare, education, and transportation.Why This Matters for Veterans
Starting January 1, 2026, the ABLE Age Adjustment Act will expand eligibility to individuals whose disability onset occurred before age 46, making approximately one million additional veterans with service-connected disabilities and those with later-onset conditions eligible for these accounts. This change represents a significant opportunity to enhance financial independence and quality of life for those who have served.Starting January 1, 2026, the age of onset for a qualifying disability will increase from 26 to 46, expanding eligibility to an estimated half a million more individuals nationwide.
This includes those with later-onset diagnoses such as:
• Lupus
• Multiple sclerosis
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Mental health conditions
• Veterans with service-connected disabilities
Key Benefits of ABLE Accounts:
Tax-Free Growth: Earnings on contributions grow tax-free when used for qualified expenses.
Benefit Protection: Savings in an ABLE account generally do not affect eligibility for federal means-tested programs.
Flexibility: Funds can be used for a broad range of expenses that improve health, independence, and quality of life.
Our goal is to ensure veterans and their families are informed about these expanded opportunities for financial independence.
Visit ableunited.com/age-adjustment-act to sign up for updates.
Local Tallahassee Dentist. Please spread the word.
Very respectfully,
Roy
Roy L. Clark III
Director of Cabinet and Legislative Affairs
Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs
