San Mateo County seeks nominations for veterans and advocates making a quiet difference
San Mateo County, California – Some of San Mateo County’s strongest advocates for veterans may never seek recognition on their own. They are often too busy helping former service members find support, guiding military families through difficult moments or quietly strengthening the community around them.
The county is now asking residents to help bring those contributions into the spotlight. Nominations have opened for the San Mateo County Veterans Commission’s 11th Annual Veteran of the Year Awards, with three categories recognizing service by veterans, organizations and civilian supporters.
The Veteran of the Year award will honor a veteran who lives in San Mateo County and has shown exceptional leadership, community service and dedication. The recognition is intended for someone whose work has made a meaningful difference beyond their own military service.
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Businesses, nonprofit groups and other organizations may be considered for Enterprise of the Year. This category recognizes an enterprise that has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to veterans living in San Mateo County. That support may come from an organization’s broader mission, its programs or its continued work with the local veteran community.
The Patriot of the Year category focuses on a different kind of service. It honors a non-veteran whose efforts have had a positive impact on veterans and military families across the county.
Together, the three awards reflect the many ways people can serve those who have worn the uniform. Recognition is not limited to one profession, program or type of assistance. The central requirement is a record of meaningful commitment to veterans and their families.
The Veterans Commission is encouraging residents, employees, volunteers, community groups and professional networks to submit nominations and share the opportunity with others. Organizers noted that many people and organizations doing exceptional work are modest about their contributions and may not nominate themselves.
That makes public participation an important part of the annual awards. A nomination can ensure that work performed quietly throughout the year is seen and acknowledged by the wider San Mateo County community.
Nominations for the 2026 awards must be submitted by August 29. With the deadline approaching, residents are being asked to consider the veterans, civilian advocates, businesses and organizations whose leadership and service deserve recognition during the awards’ 11th year.
