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Retired U.S. Army Captain Stephen Petty was inducted into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame this week.
Episode 3178 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vietnam Vet Steve Petty was honored at Ocala, FL. The featured story appeared in the Ocala News and was submitted by Jeremiah Delgado.
Delgado reported that Marion County is preparing to honor one of its most distinguished citizens while also shining a light on the enduring greatness of all Vietnam Veterans. The Marion County Board of County Commissioners will proclaim January 10 as “Steve Petty Day,” recognizing a man whose life exemplifies courage, sacrifice, and lifelong service. The proclamation follows Petty’s induction into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame on November 6, 2025, one of the highest honors awarded to veterans in the state. The official presentation will take place at the commission’s January 20 meeting.
Retired Army Captain Steve Petty served as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, a conflict defined by extraordinary bravery under relentless conditions. His record includes some of the nation’s highest military honors: the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and the Air Medal with a “V” Device and 40 Oak Leaf Clusters. These awards reflect repeated acts of valor and mirror the heroism shown daily by countless Vietnam Veterans who flew, fought, treated the wounded, and supported their fellow soldiers under fire.
Like so many Vietnam Veterans, Petty carried his sense of duty home. After retiring from the Army, he dedicated himself to serving other veterans through leadership with Veterans Helping Veterans USA, Inc., the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, and efforts to expand care through the Vet Resource Center.
The county’s proclamation encourages residents to recognize Petty’s extraordinary service, while also honoring the broader legacy of Vietnam Veterans—men and women whose resilience, sacrifice, and quiet strength continue to shape communities across America.
Listen to Episode 3178 and discover more about how Vietnam Vet Steve Petty was honored at Ocala, FL.
