#United States #Veterans Day #Tampa #Tampa General Hospital #Jay Collins

Celebration of Honor at Tampa General Hospital

On November 11, 2025, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) hosted a heartfelt event to honor American veterans and military personnel. The day was marked by a special visit from Florida's Lieutenant Governor, Jay Collins, a decorated Army Special Forces combat veteran and Green Beret. This occasion was part of TGH's systemwide initiative to recognize the sacrifices made by veterans and active military members along with their families.

A Memorable Tribute

The celebration began with a formal honor guard presentation, followed by a stirring musical tribute that filled the atmosphere with patriotic spirit. Notably, TGH's leadership, including President and CEO John Couris, took the stage to express gratitude towards the veterans within their organization. Couris emphasized the importance of veterans, stating, "American veterans embody selflessness and sacrifice. They protect and defend our country so that we may live free. This tribute to our veterans is just a small token of our appreciation for those who answered the call to duty."

Lieutenant Governor Collins, with a remarkable background in the military, shared his insights during the event. After suffering serious injuries in combat that required amputation of his leg, he not only continued to serve but also re-qualified as a Green Beret, demonstrating exceptional resilience and dedication. His military accolades are numerous, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart. Collins' commitment to service has earned him respect and recognition, particularly in his current role as Lieutenant Governor, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in August 2025.

He articulated a profound sentiment about the significance of veterans, "When I think about America, I often think of our veteran population. Veterans have been at the forefront of every challenge we have faced as a nation. I believe that when veterans come together, just as you did here, amazing things happen." His words resonated deeply with the attendees, many of whom were current and former military personnel connected to TGH.

The TGH Commitment to Veterans

The event not only celebrated service members but also showcased TGH’s commitment to supporting veterans within the organization. Doug Leonardo, CEO of TGH Behavioral Health Hospital and co-executive sponsor of the TGH Veterans Team Member Resource Group, highlighted the contributions of military personnel to the hospital’s mission, asserting that their loyalty, honor, and courage inspire everyone associated with TGH.

The Veterans Team Member Resource Group, a volunteer-led effort, aims to create an inclusive environment for veterans and their families to connect and support one another. Tampa General’s ongoing commitment includes networking opportunities and resources that assist military families.

About Tampa General Hospital

Tampa General Hospital is a 1,529-bed non-profit academic health system, recognized for providing comprehensive care, including being the only designated Level 1 trauma center in the Tampa Bay area. Consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation, TGH leverages advanced medical practices, including the implementation of artificial intelligence in care coordination, ensuring patients receive timely and effective treatments.

Additionally, TGH is known for its dedication to community service, providing substantial benefits to underinsured patients and actively engaging in community health programs. In 2023, the hospital contributed approximately $301.8 million in community benefits, reinforcing its status as a safety-net hospital in the region. Their commitment to education is evidenced by their role as the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Among its numerous accolades, Tampa General also achieved recognition as the No. 1 adult solid organ transplant center in the nation in 2024, continuing its legacy of excellence in healthcare services.

For more information on Tampa General Hospital, visit their official website at www.tgh.org.