HARRISBURG, Pa. (EYT) — Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Maj. Gen. John Pippy honored the service and leadership of military veterans during Military Appreciation Day at the 110th Pennsylvania Farm Show.
According to Secretary Redding, Pennsylvania veterans provide discipline and innovation that strengthen the state’s rural economy. Redding announced that $300,000 is now available through the Veterans in Agriculture Grants Program. According to the department, these funds go to organizations that provide mini-grants of up to $15,000 to help veterans start or expand farm operations. The application period for these grants runs from Jan. 30 to March 13, 2026.
The administration presented the first Pennsylvania Veteran Ag Entrepreneurship Award to George Lake, owner of Thistle Creek Farms. Lake is a 30-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran who operates a 600-acre livestock farm in Huntingdon County. According to the award citation, Lake was recognized for his success in regenerative, pasture-based farming and for mentoring other producers. Lake stated that he is especially drawn to helping other veterans who want to enter a career in farming.
Maj. Gen. Pippy, who serves as the head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, stated that these programs ensure veterans have the tools to succeed in the fields that feed the nation. According to the Shapiro Administration, the state also supports these farmers through the Homegrown by Heroes program. This initiative helps consumers identify and purchase products grown on veteran-owned farms.
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