Bobby White

Bobby White is a decorated Vietnam War veteran and lifelong advocate for service members. Rising to the rank of Sergeant (E-5) during his tour in Vietnam, he has since devoted his professional life to supporting veterans through clinical care, leadership, and outreach. His tenure as Director of the Ft. Lauderdale Vet Center from 1981 to 2010 marked a transformative period in Florida’s mental health services for veterans, where he oversaw multidisciplinary teams, case management programs, and contract operations. Appointed Commissioner of the Florida Commission for Veterans Affairs by Governor Graham, he played an influential role in shaping statewide veteran policy.

Following his retirement from federal service, Bobby led a resurgence at VFW Post 8195 in Hollywood, Florida, where he served as Post Commander for six years. There, he initiated the Stone of Hope Military Outreach & Wellness Center, delivering holistic programs to address PTSD and TBI through services such as acupuncture, massage therapy, Tai Chi, and transcendental meditation. As Program Executive Director, Bobby managed grants, organized health and wellness drives, and expanded the post’s reach to transitioning and underserved veterans.

Bobby’s dedication to honoring veterans’ voices led him to co-author Black Soldiers Tell Their Vietnam Stories, a powerful anthology chronicling wartime experiences, and to produce the documentary Black Vietnam: Into the Light. His earlier counseling work at Miami-Dade Community College and Florida International University laid the foundation for a career committed to trauma healing and community support. Bobby also made his mark as a business owner, operating a transportation and marketing company that served major South Florida shopping centers.

With advanced degrees in psychology and licensure as a mental health counselor, Bobby has earned numerous commendations, including the Veterans Administration Performance and Special Contribution Awards and induction into the Florida Hall of Fame in 2018. A former Vice Commander of American Legion Post 29 and a member of multiple veterans’ organizations, he continues to serve as a guiding force for community wellness and empowerment. Off duty, Bobby spent two decades coaching high school basketball, carrying his mentorship from the battlefield to the court.

Bobby’s dedication to veterans led him to co-author a book and produce a documentary highlighting their experiences. Bobby White’s numerous memberships and awards reflect his commitment to veterans and his community.