Honoring Veterans: Tampa General Celebrates Their Service with Special Event

Tampa General Hospital Honors Veterans on Veterans Day

On November 10, 2026, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) notably marked Veterans Day with a heartfelt celebration at its Davis Islands campus, acknowledging the invaluable service of military veterans. The event featured Florida State Senator and U.S. Army Reserve Major, Danny Burgess, who joined the hospital's leadership to honor those who have served in the military, particularly highlighting the many veterans who are part of TGH's healthcare team.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from John Couris, President and CEO of the Florida Health Sciences Center | Tampa General. Couris expressed immense pride in the over 200 TGH team members who are veterans or active military personnel. He stated, "Their courage and commitment to service inspire us, and the leadership, experience, and teamwork they bring make Tampa General and our community stronger."

Senator Burgess spoke passionately to the audience, which included fellow veterans and active-duty military members. He emphasized the crucial role of veterans in both defending the nation and supporting the community through healthcare. He stated, "Thank you for serving our country in uniform. Thank you for serving our state in healthcare. We're better for it. Keep being the tip of the spear in healthcare."

Burgess has a rich history of advocating for veterans. Elected to the Florida Senate in 2020, he has been a key figure in developing legislation and programs aimed at addressing mental health issues such as PTSD, anxiety, and suicide prevention for veterans and their families. His commitment to these issues is underscored by his experience as a Major in the U.S. Army Reserve and his previous role as the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

The event included an honor guard performance by the Riverview High School JROTC and a moving rendition of the national anthem by Tiffany Aceituno, a TGH team member and veteran. Their presence enhanced the solemn yet celebratory atmosphere, showcasing the unity between veterans and the healthcare community.

Dr. Doug Leonardo, who leads TGH's Behavioral Health Service Line and sponsors the hospital's Veterans Team Member Resource Group, also addressed the gathering. He remarked on the commitment of veterans to continue their service in the healthcare field, stating, "Our veterans have given so much of themselves in service to our country, and we are incredibly fortunate that many have chosen to continue that spirit of service as part of the Tampa General family. Their courage, compassion, and commitment to others make us a stronger organization."

The Veterans Team Member Resource Group, which organized the event, is a volunteer initiative aimed at fostering inclusion within TGH, celebrating not just the service of veterans but also supporting active military members and their families.

Tampa General Hospital stands as Florida's premier academic health system, known for its extensive services spanning a 1,530-bed not-for-profit network. TGH operates as a comprehensive care facility with accolades for its trauma and burn care capabilities while also being recognized for its commitment to community service, which included over $289 million in health services for the underinsured in the preceding year.

As the leading academic hospital in Tampa Bay, TGH is dedicated to innovation and quality service, making strides in healthcare delivery through programs that involve advanced technologies including AI for enhanced patient care. Notably, the hospital has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a top employer in healthcare by Forbes magazine for six consecutive years.

With a strong focus on honoring and supporting veterans, Tampa General Hospital demonstrates its commitment to those who have served, integrating their experiences and expertise into the fabric of its healthcare services. Through events like these, TGH not only honors their past contributions but actively works towards securing a brighter future for their health and well-being.