Attention Bros & Sistas: Now I know this will be challenged with my buddy moved to X and he got screwed over by something or someone yada yada etc. But my point here is to just share some personal experiences while visiting Orlando a week ago.
I lived in Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin around 2012/13 and found pockets of vet friendly community. Like an area in a supermarket outside Kenosha designated for vets. It had 2 tables, chairs, coffee maker with a supply of donuts. AHH I was smitten. Even had literature available for helping vets, everything from buying a car to getting an apartment. Contrary to pop belief I held that just because your near a base doesn't mean it's a safe zone. GL NTC would be a point of ref.
So, I spent a week in and around Orlando; Way cool to see & meet brothers/sisters with stuff on their cars tagging their service with honor. One night it was late at the Waffle House and rigs rolled in the lot with USMC and Navy service plates, the guys just hung out and met. I could here laughing as stories being told. Some maintained short hair and others grew it out all in all comradery. Seeing the flags wave outside homes gave such a comfort as it always does. Do it man, cus stars & stripes give the civs a lift and support their point of reference for safety in some cases [that's another thread].
In the airports Salt Lake, Boise, Denver, Nashville, Orlando, both men & women came up to say Howdy or thanks for your service. So cool because at last check because of the hat I got smiles and nods all over the place. I brought up VET TV too.