HonorVets

Given the tragedy of September 11 and the war on terrorism our nation is fighting, we are reminded of the freedoms we often take for granted -- freedoms that veterans fought to defend. The sacrifices our veterans have made on behalf of this great state and nation stand as examples that underscore the need for us to take our responsibilities seriously, especially our right to vote. Across the nation, statistics show youth voter participation has declined over the past few decades. Our hope is that we can be the catalyst in reversing this trend.

To this goal, the Walton County Supervisor of Elections office developed its Vote in Honor of a Vet program. The intent of this program is to encourage voter participation, as well as remind citizens about the sacrifices our veterans have made, so that we may continue to live in a democratic society. By exercising our right to vote, we show veterans the respect they deserve for protecting our democracy.

This is how the program works. At our offices, veteran photos are displayed for voters to see as they visit. Presentations about veterans, the right to vote, and demonstrations of the voting process are presented in various formats. One such format is to high school seniors who are registering and voting for the first time. Many of these students are even joining the military and will be veterans themselves. Other formats include social organizations and community events. All voters in Walton county have the opportunity to cast their ballot in honor of any veteran of their choice. Instead of the normal "I Voted" sticker, voters may wear a sticker that says "My Vote Honors Veteran, ______________". If they do not know a veteran, they can choose a name from the Veteran Wall.

To add a veteran's photo to the Veteran Wall, a
Biography Form needs to be completed by the veteran or by a family member. Forms are available at the office of the Supervisor of Elections in DeFuniak Springs or at this link:

Biography Form

You may make copies of the Biography Form and distribute them as you wish.

Please understand that we are including all individuals who ever served our country, whether it is in peacetime or wartime; past or present. We need your participation to make this valuable program a success. Completed forms should be returned to the address at the bottom of the form. Space on our wall may soon be limited due to the growing popularity of this program, so get your photos in to us as soon as possible. If you should have any questions, please contact Bill Vorwald at (850) 892-8112 or by email at vorbill@co.walton.fl.us

The complete Walton County Honor Wall can be seen on the first floor of the Walton County Courthouse at 571 U.S. Hwy 90 East in DeFuniak Springs. As of May 2009, nearly 500 veterans with a relationship to Walton County are on the wall. A smaller scale of the Honor Wall is located at the South Walton Courthouse Annex in Santa Rosa Beach. Visitors are welcome to view the walls during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

We still have yard signs available for display at your home or business. Help us reach out to all voters by reminding others to "Honor Those Who Protect Our Freedoms - Vote In Honor of a Veteran". By displaying a sign, you show your patriotism, as well as your appreciation for those who have served or are currently serving in our Armed Forces. We are requesting a donation of $6.50 for a large sign and $3.50 for a small sign. For more information, please contact our office.

Publications & Forms

Biography Form

Brochure

This page is in memory of
Sgt. Timothy P. Padgett (1979-2007)
Killed in action on May 8, 2007 in Operation Enduring
Freedom, Afghanistan.