During a meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Governor Rick Scott recognized retired Sgt. Maj. Ray A. Quinn with the Governor’s Medal of Merit.

Sgt. Maj. Quinn served in the U.S. Army and Florida National Guard for 30 years. He is also the vice president for veteran affairs of the Association of the U.S. Army’s First Militia Chapter, Tallahassee, Fla.

Scott said, “I’d like to thank Sergeant Major Quinn for his dedication to the safety of families in Florida and the nation. I am incredibly humbled by his lifelong service, first as a member of the Army National Guard and then as a community leader in local government. I’m honored to present him with the Medal of Merit for his service and positive impact on the lives of Florida veterans.”

Lt. Col. Glenn Sutphin, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, said, “Sergeant Major Quinn has dedicated his life to serving his community, state and nation during his time in the U.S. Army and Florida Army National Guard.”

Adding, “He continues today to serve his community and veterans across the state with honor and integrity. Sergeant Major Quinn represents what it means to be a member of the Florida National Guard and a leader in our community.”

Quinn enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1965 and transitioned to the Florida Army National Guard in 1973.

He was an infantry soldier, 1st sergeant, operations sergeant and personnel noncommissioned officer.

After he retired from the Regular Army, he served on the staff of the adjutant general of Florida as the director of executive services.

In 2010, Quinn was appointed by the governor to serve as an interim county commissioner for District 3 in St. Johns County. He served in that position from January 2010 until January 2011.

He currently serves as chairman of the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame Council, and vice chair of the St. Johns County Veterans Council.