Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) has awarded a grant to The Honor Foundation (THF), supporting U.S. Special Operations Forces in their transition to civilian life. 

• The grant is part of a $50,000 initiative by FPL to support six nonprofits across Northwest Florida through the NextEra Energy Foundation.

THF, who has a branch in Okaloosa County, provides a Veteran transition program specifically tailored for special operators. Since its inception a decade ago, more than 2,500 individuals have graduated from the program.

Marc Tirres, THF Eglin director of programs and a graduate of the transition program, highlighted the challenges faced by special operators as they leave military service. Tirres, a former Air Force special operator, is now director of programs for the institution that helped him transition into civilian life.

• “When that time comes for special operators to hang up their uniform and transition into the civilian sector, many of them struggle with redefining their identity and finding a new purpose in this next chapter,” Tirres said. “Support from organizations like FPL are vital to providing the tools and skills needed for a successful transition.”

The program has assisted special operators of all ranks. Jimmy Cleckler, a Special Tactics Officer retiring in Spring 2025, credited the program with helping him acquire new skills for civilian life.

“This program not only helped me immensely but also provided crucial information for my family’s adjustment to civilian life,” Cleckler said.

Col. Allison Black, former 1st SOW Commander, also shared her experience with the program. After serving for over 32 years, Black found the transition to the corporate world overwhelming.

• “The Honor Foundation was the perfect program to help me navigate these pressures and fears … and transition with confidence,” Black said.

J.T. Young, FPL Northwest region VP and general manager, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting such initiatives. “At FPL, we are honored to support all of these remarkable nonprofits that lend a hand to lift up those in need, and provide life-changing opportunities,” Young said.

The grant to THF is part of FPL’s broader effort to address diverse community needs in Northwest Florida, with a focus on areas such as education, food insecurity, senior citizen support, and child advocacy.