Hernando commissioner, Navy Reservist surprises family

BROOKSVILLE (FOX 13) - A Hernando County commissioner who was called to active duty by the United States Navy last year arranged a surprise reunion with his family during a Memorial Day weekend church service.

U.S. Navy Lieutenant and Hernando County Commissioner Jeff Holcomb's wife and two daughters were overwhelmed with joy when the realized they weren't just being recognized for their family's sacrifices, but that their rock was finally home.

Lt. Holcomb returned home safely after more than a year serving in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, as well as Southwest Asia. He has served 11 years with the Navy Reserve as an intelligence officer.

In 2016, he was called to active duty to help in the fight against ISIS in the Middle East.

During Lt. Holcomb's deployment, commissioners stepped up to fill his role in Hernando County government. The county says Commissioner John Mitten has taken on extra duties during Holcomb's military leave of absence.

Now, Lt. Holcomb says he plans to quickly catch up with government business before returning to his seat on June 28.

Lt. Holcomb was elected to the Board of County Commissioners in November 2014. He served as second vice chairman during his first year of office. He is also a lead senior software consultant for FIS Wealth Management Systems and has been employed there for 16 years.

"It was an honor to serve overseas, but I am very happy to be home with my family again," Holcomb said. "I look forward to resuming my elected role as commissioner and serving the citizens of Hernando County.