STORIES OF SERVICE: Retired Army Lt. Col. Skip Taylor of Viera Inducted Into Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame

was awarded a Silver Star and three Bronze Stars for valor, plus two purple hearts

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet voted unanimously to induct 15 veterans into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame, including Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral Chapter member Retired Army Lt. Col. Harry “Skip” Taylor of Viera.

The Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame recognizes and honors those military veterans who, through their works and lives during or after military service, have made a significant contribution to the State of Florida through civic, business, public service or other pursuits. It is not a traditional hall of fame, as it focuses on post-military contributions to the State of Florida.

Taylor’s 31-year Army career began in 1962 when Uncle Sam drafted him. During his two years in Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry Division, he was awarded a Silver Star and three Bronze Stars for valor, plus two purple hearts. He rose from the bottom to close to the top, working at the Pentagon, NATO, the DIA and the State Department.

After retirement, Taylor and his wife, Mary Beth, lived in Belize where he served as operations officer for the Belize Youth Conservation Corps. He then moved to Miami, where he volunteered as a master naturalist in the Everglades; taught at Florida Atlantic University and Nova Southeastern; and served as the Rotary Club’s Assistant District Governor for Florida.

A Board member and Survivor Assistance Officer with MOAACC, Taylor helps veterans with VA issues as a DAV Chapter 123 certified service officer.

At Indian River Colony Club, he chairs the community’s foundation, which funds college scholarships for local students. He has mentored approximately 100 veterans, either homeless or with substance abuse issues, through Veterans Treatment Court. He also visits the county jail to help incarcerated veterans with issues regarding their health, disabilities, and court proceedings.

My motto is “Never stop serving,” said Lt. Col. Taylor.

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