Bob Swick
Chaplain – Board of Advisors
Bob Swick’s journey of service began as a freshman at the University of Scranton, where he joined the United States Marine Corps and successfully completed the USMC Platoon Leaders Corps Program. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and embarked on a distinguished military career. During his four years of active duty, Bob served primarily in the Far East, including Vietnam with the First Reconnaissance Battalion and 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines. After recovering from injuries sustained in combat, he resumed service at Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni, Japan, and later as a Company Commander at Camp Lejeune, NC. Rising to the rank of Captain in less than three years, Bob’s leadership earned him numerous honors, including the Bronze Star with Combat “V,” Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citations (2), Combat Action Ribbon, and Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. In 2012, Bob was ordained as an Old Catholic priest, dedicating his ministry to serving veterans in the Tampa Bay area, providing spiritual guidance, counseling, and support.
Bob is a committed leader in veteran advocacy and community service. His roles include Chairman/CEO of the Tampa Bay Veterans Alliance, Chairman of myVA Communities for the St. Petersburg VA District, Co-Chair of the Veterans Advisory Council for U.S. Congressman Jolly, Veterans Advisory Council Member for U.S. Congressman Bilirakis, Member of the Military Veterans Advisory Committee for the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce, Past Commander of Marine Corps League, Military Officers Association of America, Military Order of the World Wars, and Military Order of the Purple Heart, Senior Chaplain for the Clearwater Police Department, and Board Member for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast.
Bob has dedicated his life to championing initiatives that honor and support veterans and their families, including restoring full operational status to the County Veterans Service Office (VSO), leading efforts to establish the Florida Veterans Memorial Plaza in Clearwater, advocating for state recognition through an Enhanced Purple Heart license plate (pending), and petitioning for the designation of State Route 60 in Pinellas County as the Purple Heart Trail (pending).
Through his military career, spiritual ministry, and relentless advocacy, Bob Swick has become a cornerstone of the veteran community. His work continues to honor the sacrifices of those who served, while ensuring their families receive the resources, respect, and support they deserve.