This Veterans Day, Seminole County proudly honors all who have served and those who continue to serve. With more than 35,000 veterans calling Seminole County home, the County recently elevated Veterans Services to its own division to enhance support and improve customer service

Leading the new Veterans Service Division is Joey Cote, a 21-year U.S. Army veteran. Retiring in 2024 as a Sergeant First Class, Joey's military career took him around the world—from Afghanistan to South Korea, Japan, Hawaii, and Fort Meade in Polk County—where he led more than 80 soldiers as a Platoon Sergeant.

From his active-duty service to his later role as an Army recruiter, Joey has continued to live by a motto given to him by a former commanding officer. In South Korea in 2010, that officer handed him a difficult task and said, “There's a yes somewhere — go find it.”

Joey believes his years of service continue to shape who he is and fuel his commitment to helping others. Now serving as Seminole County's lead Veterans Services Officer, he is dedicated to helping veterans access the benefits they have earned, while fostering connection to local resources and to one another.

Joey's leadership, experience, and passion will help ensure that every veteran in our community knows one thing: there's always a “yes” waiting to be found.

Visit Seminole County Veterans Services to learn more about the team and resources available.