Gainesville, Florida (October 13, 2021 ) – Florida Gators Sports Properties and Air Pros USA, a leading residential and commercial air conditioning services company and the official Air Conditioning partner for Gators football, came together for the annual “Saluting Those Who Serve” initiative to recognize a local Veteran. Working with the Alachua County Veteran Services Division, Air Pros USA and the Florida Gators awarded 88-year-old Eddie Thomas, a decorated Korean War Veteran, with a brand-new air conditioning unit and installation, free of charge.
Additionally, Air Pros USA gifted HVAC systems to five other veterans in honor of Veterans Day 2021, Nov. 11.
Thomas was nominated by the Alachua County Veteran Services Division because of his service to the country and he has a 23-year-old A/C unit in need of being replaced. Thomas served in the United States Air Force from 1954-1958, as well as during the Korean War. His service included overseeing security at his base in Germany as well as the K-9 units. Thomas says that the military was ahead of its times in terms of diversity and inclusion to put him in such a supervisory role at a young age.
"I am so pleased that our local Korean War Veteran, Eddie Thomas, was selected for this wonderful opportunity,” says Kim Davis, Executive Director for Alachua County Veteran Services Division. “Our Veteran Services Team is very dedicated to our Veteran Community as we strive to help them with their needs and when something special comes along, it warms our hearts to see a deserving Veteran receive a life changing opportunity."
During active-duty Thomas earned a Good Conduct Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Outstanding Unit Award, Small Arms Expert Award, the National Defense Medal, the Korean Defense Service Medal and the United Nations Service Medal. His military service is such a source of pride for him. Thomas, who is legally blind, still volunteers and serves on the Korean War Veterans of America Color Guard at Veteran events and funerals.
“Like many who call South Florida home, we are passionate about the Florida Gators and giving back to the community we serve,” said Anthony Perera, President of Air Pros USA. “Honoring those who have served our country will always be a priority for Air Pros USA not only with donations and giveaways but also in our hiring initiatives and event support.”
“We are excited that Air Pros, like several other prestigious companies, is joining us in our annual Saluting Those Who Serve initiative in supporting the Florida Gators,” said Scott Stricklin, Athletics Director at the University of Florida. “They are truly exemplary not only as one of the fastest growing Heating and Air Conditioning companies in the state, but also in their commitment to veterans and giving back.”
Veterans Day Recipients
For the company’s 2nd annual Veterans Day Giveaway. James Fitzgerald from Mobile, AL and Bobby Joseph from Fort Myers, FL received free air conditioning units and commendations for their service to America. Gary Heath from Spokane, WA and Alan and Melissa Rolli from Colorado Springs, CO received a free furnace unit in honor of their selfless service.
“We are honored to be able to recognize our heroes and provide them with brand-new furnace and A/C units,” said Anthony Perera, founder of Air Pros USA. “We truly loved learning about our Veterans through this giveaway. This is just a small way for us to express our gratitude for their service to our country.”
a truck. Gary was also exposed to Agent Orange which has left him permanently disabled. He belongs to the Vietnam Veterans Group in Spokane Valley and The Marine Corps League charity organization.
Alan Rolli was an Information Systems Operator/Analyst who was stationed at Fort Hood, TX, the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe in Belgium, and Bosnia. Throughout his career, Alan was awarded two Army Achievement Medals, one Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, two Good Conduct Medals, NATO Medal, and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
Melissa Rolli served as a Paralegal Specialist providing legal and administrative support in all areas of criminal law, family law, international law, civil and administrative law, contract law and fiscal law. She served primarily at Fort Hood, TX and was awarded an Army Commendation Medal and an Army Service Ribbon.
Melissa routinely volunteers with Cub Scouts, her school PTO and other organizations as projects and opportunities arise.
Air Pros USA reports it is continuously finding ways to give back to the community, including Veterans and military service members, to thank them for their service. For more information or details on franchise opportunities visit www.airprosusa.com.
Air Pros USA was founded in South Florida in 2017 on the premise of integrity, reliability, and putting our customers first. The company has quickly expanded to many metro areas within Florida, Colorado, Georgia, Texas, and Washington, with more franchise partners expected to be introduced soon. Air Pros USA currently employs over 250 experienced professionals with 14 service locations. For more information or details on franchise opportunities visit www.airprosusa.com.