DeSantis presents posthumous honors to Jimmy Buffett and four other Floridians

Governor DeSantis Honors Five Floridians with Medal of Freedom

In a recent announcement, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded the Governor’s Medal of Freedom to five notable Floridians. Among the recipients were singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett and several former politicians from both parties.

DeSantis expressed pride in recognizing the legacies of these individuals. “Our state is better for their contributions,” he remarked, emphasizing how honored he felt to have them call Florida home. Each of these individuals, according to him, truly earned this prestigious accolade.

The awardees include Buffett, who sadly passed away in 2023 at 76, former GOP US Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart, former Democratic Governors Bob Graham and Buddy Mackay, and former Republican House Speaker John Thrasher.

Buffett is well-known for his music, particularly hits like “Margaritaville” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” which made waves in the 1970s. Beyond music, he ventured into business, establishing the “Margaritaville” brand, which encompasses restaurants and resorts. It’s interesting, really—he opened his first store in Key West back in 1985 and quickly followed it up with a café two years later. His cultural influence on Florida’s coastal lifestyle is undeniable, as noted in the governor’s office release.

On a side note, Lincoln Diaz-Balart, who passed earlier this year at 70, was a Cuban-American known for his staunch advocacy against communism. He fled Cuba after the revolution and dedicated his life to promoting freedom.

Bob Graham served both in the Florida legislature and as governor. He was respected for his efforts in education and environmental protection, and he passed away last year at 87. The governor’s statement highlighted his significant contributions.

Mackay, who was the last Democratic governor of Florida, died last year at 91. He served in various roles, including Lieutenant Governor and a representative during the Clinton administration. Meanwhile, Thrasher, who notably held the position of president at Florida State University, passed away in 2023 at 81. He was deeply involved in state politics and even served in the Army during the Vietnam War.