GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Arvid Nelson, a U.S. Navy veteran of 26 years, was selected as the Clay County Veteran of the Year by the Board of Commissioners.

In addition, Marine Corps veteran David Bradley and Navy veteran Aaron “Gary” Newman were honored for Outstanding Superior Performances.

The surprise announcements were made during last Saturday’s Salute to Service at the Clay County Fairgrounds.

Nelson exemplified selfless service and unwavering dedication to our community through various volunteer roles across multiple organizations. His passion for supporting fellow veterans is evident in his leadership role with the Veterans Council of Clay County.

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 volunteers in Police Service and contributes to the agency’s Neighborhood Engagement Team. He 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 Waste Not Want Not's mission 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 nonprofits, helping to alleviate hunger and food insecurity within the community.

Outstanding Superior Performance Award Recipient Bradley David Bradley served in the Marine Corps from July 1979 to August 2005. He was 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, empowering and inspiring 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.

Newman served in the Navy from March 1959 to March 1978. In 2012, he established the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1059 in the county 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 Vietnam Veterans of America Florida State Council president, with 6,000 members and 30 chapters under his leadership. He has served as VVA Florida State Council's first and second vice presidents. He is a 2018 recipient of the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame. Nationally, Newman serves as a committee member for the Vietnam Veterans of America Veterans Incarcerated and the Justice System program.

Newman founded the TAPS Monument at the Historic Triangle 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. This year’s ceremony will be at 10 a.m. on March 29.

The Salute to Service honors those who served and are serving with presentations focused on topics that impact their lives.

The events included food trucks, military displays, Camp Blanding displays, a children’s play zone, face-painting, a bubble zone and a car show from Clay County Cruzers.