DOVER — Delaware Veterans Coalition founders Dave Skocik and Paul Davis were presented with the Order of the First State by Gov. Bethany Hall-Long on Jan. 16 for their service and dedication to fellow veterans since 2011.

Mr. Skocik and Mr. Davis have served as president and vice president of the Veterans Coalition as registered lobbyists to promote legislation on behalf of Delaware's 70,000 veterans and their families. Both work pro bono to benefit fellow veterans of all conflicts.

The highest civilian award, presented after a luncheon for veterans who have served the state in military and civilian capacities, was a complete surprise, said Paul Davis. It affirms the efforts to urge recently inaugurated Gov. Matt Meyer to appoint a Secretary of Veterans Affairs to his cabinet by endorsing HB 1.

“Former Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long has been a long-time advocate for this position to best serve First State Veterans," said Mr. Skocik. “She's referred to herself as a 'military brat,' who appreciates the sacrifices of the families of those who serve. Her husband Dana Long, who served nine years in the U.S. Navy, added his congratulations to his fellow veterans.”