Yesterday we lost a great American and local hero to thousands of Central Florida Veterans, George Taylor Sr. For as long as I can remember George has been on the front lines leading the effort to improve the lives of Veterans who served our great country only to find themselves homeless and in need of assistance.

In addition to being the founder and President of National Veterans Homeless Support, a group that has helped countless Veterans regain their dignity and lives, George was also instrumental in helping us establish Veterans Court here in Brevard County. This court works with Veterans who commit non-violent offenses, often due to mental health and substance abuse issues, and place them in treatment and educational programs instead of seeking incarceration.

I’d like to extend my deepest sympathy to George’s family, friends, and everyone at the NVHS who are suffering today. His incredible passion to serve his country, community, and our great Veterans were qualities that few men share, and fewer still make the focus of their lives. I, like many others will miss George, his huge smile, firm handshake, and always present cowboy hat. But even so, I know that George’s legacy will live on, and remembered by those of us fortunate to have called him our friend.

-Phil Archer

(L) State Attorney Phil Archer with George Taylor (R)