Treasure Coast Sun

Representative Brian Mast, along with the entire Florida Congressional delegation, has introduced a bill to rename the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in West Palm Beach, Florida. The proposed name change would honor the life and achievements of Thomas H. Corey, a distinguished Vietnam War Veteran and a dedicated advocate for the rights of veterans.

According to Rep. Mast, "Thomas Corey's life shows no injury was big enough to eclipse his mission to serve others. Renaming the VA medical center after Thomas is a recognition he deserves for his tireless work to locate the remains of his brothers-in-arm left behind in the jungles of Vietnam and his passionate advocacy for veterans in our community."

Corey's contributions to the veteran community in West Palm Beach were extensive. Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick expressed her gratitude, stating, "We owe Thomas Corey and his loved ones a debt of gratitude. Naming the West Palm Beach VA medical center in his honor is a small token of appreciation for the countless sacrifices he made."

The impact of Corey's advocacy extended beyond his local community. Vietnam Veterans of America National President Jack McManus praised him, saying, "Tom has been an example to multitudes of veterans and all who have contact with him. He showed us that no matter the hardship, if you have the willpower, you can make changes for the better in people's lives. He did this every day, year after year, with commitment and compassion."

The bill to rename the West Palm Beach VA medical center has received widespread support. All twenty-eight members of the Florida delegation have co-sponsored the legislation. Additionally, various veteran organizations, including the Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Vietnam Veterans of America, have endorsed the bill.

Thomas H. Corey's journey began when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in December 1966 and deployed to Vietnam in May 1967. During the Tet Offensive on January 31, 1968, Corey was shot in the neck, resulting in permanent paralysis. Despite his injury, Corey remained resilient and became involved in local, regional, and national veteran organizations.

As the founding president of the West Palm Beach Chapter 25 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Corey played a crucial role in advocating for the rights and well-being of fellow veterans. In recognition of his service, the chapter was later renamed the Thomas H. Corey Chapter 25. Corey's dedication extended beyond his local community, as he went on 16 trips to Vietnam to locate POWs and MIAs and repatriate their remains. He also worked to raise awareness and research the health issues caused by Agent Orange.

Thomas H. Corey's outstanding service and commitment to veterans have left an indelible mark on the community. By renaming the West Palm Beach VA medical center in his honor, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of veterans and remind us of the importance of advocating for those who have served our country selflessly.