Dear Veterans and Families of Florida,

Each year on November 11^th, we pause to observe Veterans Day and honor all those who served our Nation and what we stand for. To our Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families: all of you made a difference when it counted. Thank you for your service and sacrifice.

This year we experienced a devastating natural disaster in Hurricane Ian. It made land fall in southwest Florida on September 28^th causing catastrophic damage as it made its way across the state. There have been heartbreaking stories of loss alongside inspiring stories of rescue and our community reaching out to help each other. The Home Base team has been out in the community assisting wherever possible, both leading and partnering with others to spearhead cleanup efforts and deliver much needed resources. The Veteran community has undoubtably been impacted by this storm and Home Base is fighting to make sure they have access to the highest quality care possible.

The state of Florida is home to more than 1.5 million Veterans. Those Veterans seeking mental health services have access to our Home Base nation-wide Intensive Clinical Program headquartered in Boston. Regionally, Home Base Florida provides Veterans, Service Members, and their Families evidence-based behavioral health and wellness services through our partnerships with Lee Health Behavioral Health Center and the David Lawrence Centers. We also offer a 100% telehealth option to serve any Veteran or Family Member across the entire state of Florida.

I strongly feel that when men and women across our great country volunteer to serve – that one half of one percent who swear an oath to support and defend our Constitution against all enemies with their lives as that might be necessary – there is created an implied trust that we will be there for them when they come home. Home Base is devoted to fulfilling that trust.

For my fellow Veterans and your Families, thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am honored to be in your ranks this Veteran’s Day and everyday as I was honored to once wear the uniform of the United States Army in the ranks of so many selfless and courageous Americans. Florida has a long road to recovery after Hurricane Ian, I hope you will help your fellow Veterans whenever possible. Additionally, I hope you will assist us to raise awareness of these programs available to them and their Families at no cost. Our Veterans earned all of this by their service and sacrifice for us all.

With great respect,

Frederick M. Franks, Jr.
General (Ret.), US Army
Honorary Director, Home Base Florida
Home Base, A Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Program