HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024 08 12 Consent 306 - 2024 Hometown Hero Nomination ApprovalCONSENT AGENDA ITEM 306
CITY COMMISSION AGENDA | AUGUST 12, 2024 REGULAR MEETING
TITLE
2024 Hometown Hero Nomination Approval
SUMMARY
Annually, the City of Winter Springs has a Veterans Day event at the Veterans
Memorial. During this ceremony, a resident or residents are highlighted for their
military service and dedication and support of Winter Springs. This year Paul Henry
Dillman & Michael J. Segura have been nominated to be the 2024 Winter Springs
Hometown Heroes. Both nominations have been reviewed and selected by our
Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee.
FUNDING SOURCE
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Commission approve Paul Henry Dillman & Michael J.
Segura as the 2024 "Winter Springs Hometown Heroes".
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Nomination of Michael J. Segura for 2024 Winter Springs Hometown Hero Recognition
I respectfully submit Marine Corps Veteran, Master Sergeant (ret) Michael J. Segura for the distinct
honor of being recognized as the Winter Springs Hometown Hero for 2024. After serving his country in
both the United States Army and Marine Corps, Segura retired Honorably after 20 years of service and
continues to serve our community in many meaningful ways.
As a Past Commandant of the CPL Larry E. Smedley Orlando Detachment of the Marine Corps League
MSG (ret) Segura remains active in multiple supported programs. Organizes and participates in Boy
Scouts of American Courts of Honor across the Central Florida area; plans and conducts multiple
opportunities for dignified public presentations of the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin to U.S. military
veterans who served during the Vietnam War period to provide them with a lasting memento of the
Nation's thanks; and began a local collection, storage and distribution initiative for the United States
Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots program. Michael established, supported, and outfitted the
Detachment's Honor Guard, providing military honors to over twenty veterans and their families
throughout Central Florida and participated in over ten parades and other patriotic activities in the last
year. He was appointed Social Media Chairman that has increased membership on Facebook and Web
page by 30% and allows veterans from across the state to participate in meetings and support each
other.
As a valued member of American Legion Post 243 Michael developed a combined Honor Guard where
Legionnaires could participate in patriotic activities along side the already established Marine Corps
League Honor Guard. Under MSG (ret) Segura's guidance the Post 243 Color Guard has since grown to
become self-sufficient in providing funeral honors, parades, and flag folding ceremonies. Michael also
was the impetus in creating the Post 243 Veteran Outreach Program; organizing a team to regularly visit
and encourage veterans in our local community's retirement, nursing, and rehab facilities. As an
individual and as part of multiple organizations, Michael has supported Post 243's goal of expanding
their current facilities and was instrumental in fundraising for their Heritage Campaign. MSG (ret)
Segura introduced the saga of the Chapel of Four Chaplains and their selfless service to their fellow men
to American Legion Post 243. Segura embodies this selfless service and is a recipient of the Legion of
Honor Humanitarian Award given in recognition of a lifetime commitment to selfless service and societal
advancement that has demonstrably affected the quality of life in the individual's community or region.
The Post created the Four Chaplains Garden this past year with the guidance and encouragement of
Michael Segura.
Segura has easily volunteered over 10,000 hours of community with the Kairos Prison Ministry to help
rehabilitate prisoners, enabling them to become better citizens upon reentry into communities like ours
across the state. His commitment to change the life of prisoners over the last few decades is
demonstrated by the assistance he offers through music, prayer, and encouragement to inmates at the
Seminole County Jail and Central Florida Reception Center. He also volunteers his time to help youth
enrolled in the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) program. Michael has been able to mentor and guide
youth that enables them to become better leaders and members of our community. His BBBS little
brother is Daniel who is now 21. They still do activities together and enjoy each other's company. Mike
has a passion for honoring and visiting local senior veterans living in nursing homes and assisted living
facilities. Mike makes numerous phone calls to maintain communications with veterans or spouses of
veterans. Mike has been involved in the Christmas Stocking program with the VA Community Living
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Centers and when the Russ Kaufman (the originator) passed away, he ensured the legacy of the
Christmas stocking program remained in effect in memory of Russell Kaufman.
Mike Segura is a recognized leader and professional who is priceless to our community.
He is often sought for guidance and assistance. His efforts and influence span numerous
veterans' organizations and has been recognized as Veteran of the Month in Seminole County,
Florida 2022. Mike is an inspiring leader and a strong, consistent communicator who continually
defines a clear mission for himself and the organizations he leads. Mike approaches all of his
efforts with passion and unwavering commitment. Mike's high-energy, can-do attitude, and
positivity is contagious and sets a high standard for all who serve with and observe him.
Winter Springs would be privileged to have Michael J. Segura as our 2024 Hometown Hero.
He is an inspiration to all.
Respectfully Submitted,
Winter Springs
2023 Hometown Hero
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