GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – At the County-run Salute to Service event, Clay County leaders proudly announced Navy veteran Arvid Nelson as the 2024 Clay County Veteran of the Year. In addition, two distinguished veterans received surprise honors –Marine Corps veteran David Bradley and Navy veteran Aaron 'Gary' Newman were awarded Outstanding Superior Performance.
The Clay County Board of County Commissioners invited the community to provide nominations for the Veteran of the Year award. A panel of county leaders and staff selected the recipient. For the first time, two veterans also received Outstanding Superior Performance awards for their dedication and service.
2024 Veteran of the Year
Arvid Nelson served in the Navy from September 25, 1964 to his retirement on September 30, 1990. He exemplifies selfless service and unwavering dedication to our community through an extensive array of volunteer roles across multiple organizations.
Nelson’s passion for supporting his fellow veterans is evident in his leadership role with the Veterans Council of Clay County, Florida. He recently spearheaded the creation of the Veterans Automobile Repair Program, a vital initiative that provides much-needed vehicle repair assistance to veterans in need. Nelson is a volunteer driver for the Veterans Clinic in Middleburg, and ensures that veterans receive timely access to medical care by transporting them to appointments throughout northeast Florida. As a volunteer with the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program, Nelson assists elderly and low-to-moderate-income residents by preparing and electronically filing their federal tax returns.
In collaboration with the Clay County Sheriff's Office, Nelson serves as a Volunteer in Police Service and contributes to the agency’s Neighborhood Engagement Team. Nelson also lends his talents to the Orange Park Community Theatre, where he serves on the Building and Grounds Committee and assists in the Box Office during performances. Nelson contributes to the mission of Waste Not Want Not by collecting and delivering rescued food from local grocery stores. His efforts directly support the organization’s ability to provide vital food resources to area non-profits, helping to alleviate hunger and food insecurity within the community.
Nelson demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to Clay County through his diverse and impactful volunteer efforts. As a veteran, his unwavering dedication to serving others is an inspiration to all. His leadership, compassion, and tireless contributions embody the highest ideals of service, making him a highly deserving recipient of the Clay County Veteran of the Year award.
Outstanding Superior Performance Award Recipients
David Bradley
David Bradley served in the Marine Corps from July 1979 to August 2005. Bradley has been an instrumental mentor and contributor to the Anchored4Life Program, a vital initiative supporting the needs of our military families. As dean, counselor, and advocate for students at Oakleaf High School, Bradley works tirelessly to foster a supportive and nurturing environment for every student.
Bradley’s reach extends far beyond the school setting. He mentors a young men's group at his church, where he empowers and inspires the next generation of leaders to embrace values of integrity, resilience, and service. His dedication to service is further evident in his work as a volunteer with the Salvation Army, where he selflessly supports individuals in need. A proud advocate for military-connected youth, Bradley is also a contributor and sponsor of the Blue Star student connection program, reinforcing his commitment to honoring the sacrifices of our service members and their families.
Bradley’s tireless commitment to community service, mentorship, and advocacy reflects his profound sense of duty and honor, making him a deserving recipient of this recognition.
Aaron ‘Gary’ Newman
Aaron ‘Gary’ Newman served in the Navy from March 1959 to March 1978. Newman established the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1059 in Clay County in 2012 and was the founder of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1080 at Union Correctional Institution. Newman helped start the Veterans Council of Clay County, Florida and was instrumental in Clay County Veterans' Treatment Court.
On a state level, Newman is currently the president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Florida State Council, which has 6,000 members and 30 chapters under his leadership. He has served as VVA Florida State Council 1st Vice President and 2nd Vice President. Newman is a 2018 recipient of the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame. Nationally, Newman serves as a committee member on the Vietnam Veterans of America Veterans Incarcerated and in the Justice System program. He is the founder of the TAPS Monument in Green Cove Springs, which recognizes fallen service members who were killed in action from all wars dating back to the Civil War. Newman serves as chair of a committee that holds a ceremony on or around the national recognition of the Vietnam War every March.
Newman’s tireless dedication to his fellow veterans on a local and state level makes him a deserving recipient of this recognition.
We are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifice of all the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, in our armed forces, as well as the unwavering support of their families. Thank you!
