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Veterans Honored: Bench Dedication at Malcom Randall VAMC

Members of Elk’s Lodge #990, along with the NF/SGVHS Executive Leadership and Police Services, gathered for a photograph at the bench.
Members of Elk’s Lodge #990, along with the NF/SGVHS Executive Leadership and Police Services, gathered for a photograph at the bench dedicated to Sgt. Larry Motts.

By Katie Butler, Public Affairs Specialist

Gainesville, Fla. – The Malcom Randall VA Medical Center (VAMC) recently held a ceremony in collaboration with the Elk’s Lodge #990, who generously donated four benches to honor four distinguished Veterans.

These benches commemorate Sgt. Larry Mott, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who served from 1967 to 1969 and continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves until 1986, earning the Vietnam Service Medal; Petty Officer 3rd Class Larry Williams, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1953; Sgt. 1st Class Larry M. Stokes, a U.S. Army Veteran from 1984 to 2005; and Master Sgt. Elton Smith, who served in the U.S. Air Force from 1976 to 1996. 

In total, the Elk’s Lodge has contributed ten benches to the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) across various locations in the Gainesville area, each dedicated to honoring a different Veteran.

 “They’re more than just benches. Each one stands as a tribute to a Veteran who served our country. We are truly honored to have them here at our Malcom Randall facility,” said Brian Dyer Marine Corps Veteran and Assistant Director of the NF/SGVHS.

These benches will be designated as pickup points for Veterans, enabling our transportation staff to efficiently escort them directly to the hospital entrance, thus minimizing the need to navigate the large parking lot. The other six benches are thoughtfully positioned throughout other Gainesville VA facilities, offering Veterans and their families inviting areas to relax and appreciate the natural environment. 

NF/SGVHS is deeply grateful to the Elks Lodge for their support of our nation’s heroes. Their continued commitment to the NF/SGVHS is a true testament to the power of community.

For more information on the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, please visit https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/locations/malcom-randall-d….