Stand Up for Florida’s Veterans: Your Voice Is Needed Now!

At Sauls-Bridges Post 13, our mission has always been clear: stand by our veterans, empower our youth, and build a stronger community in Tallahassee and across Florida. Today, we need your help more than ever to ensure that two cornerstone programs-the Florida American Legion Boys State and transportation for the 2025 National Convention-receive the state funding they need to continue making a difference.

Why These Programs Matter

• Florida American Legion Boys State is a life-changing leadership experience for high school students, teaching the next generation about democracy, civic responsibility, and service. Each year, hundreds of young Floridians come together to learn how government works by running a model state, debating real issues, and building friendships that last a lifetime. This program shapes future leaders and strengthens our democracy.

  
  

• National Convention Transportation ensures that over 8,000 veterans, their families, and supporters can safely and efficiently attend the 2025 National Convention in Tampa Bay. This event honors those who served, fosters camaraderie, and brings national attention-and economic impact-to our state.

Both programs are at a critical funding crossroads. While the House has shown support, the Senate has not yet included full funding in their budget proposals. Without your advocacy, these vital initiatives are at risk.

How You Can Make a Real Difference

We are calling on every member, supporter, and friend of the American Legion family to take action today. Your voice-one phone call or email-can tip the scales and secure the future of these programs.

Here’s What You Can Do Right Now:

1. Support Boys State Funding

• Call Senator Gayle Harrell, Chair of the Senate Higher Education Budget Committee, at 850-487-5031. Urge her to fully fund Boys State in the Senate budget.

  
  

• Call Representative Demi Busatta Cabrera, Chair of the House Higher Education Budget Committee, at 850-717-5114. Thank her for supporting Boys State and ask her to protect this funding during negotiations.

2. Advocate for National Convention Transportation

• Call Senator Nick DiCeglie, Chair of the Senate Transportation Budget Committee, at 850-487-5018. Ask him to support full funding for National Convention transportation.

  
  

• Call Representative Jason Shoaf, Chair of the House Transportation Budget Committee, at 850-717-5007. Thank him for the current funding and urge him to advocate for the full amount needed.

3. Make It Personal

When you call or email, introduce yourself and share your connection to the American Legion or your local community. Clearly state which program you’re supporting and why it matters to you. End by thanking them for their service and consideration. Personal stories and heartfelt messages have a real impact.

Why Your Action Matters

Every call and email is counted. Lawmakers listen when their constituents speak up-especially when it comes to supporting veterans and youth. Advocacy works best when it’s personal, thoughtful, and persistent. Your engagement can help ensure these vital programs receive the funding they need to continue serving our community and state.

Let’s Make Our Voices Heard

The American Legion has always been a force for good in Florida, but we can’t do it alone. Stand with us. Take action today to protect the future of Boys State and ensure our veterans are honored at the National Convention. Together, we can make a difference.

Ready to help? Pick up the phone. Send that email. Tell Tallahassee that Florida stands with its veterans and youth.

Thank you for your support and your service to our community.

For more details and talking points, visit the Florida Legion’s budget priorities page (https://www.floridalegion.org/support-needed-for-florida-legion-budget-priorities/) or contact Sauls-Bridges Post 13 directly.

Sauls-Bridges Post 13: Serving Veterans. Shaping Leaders. Strengthening Florida.