Veterans coalition awards those who supported their mission
JACKSON, Tenn. – The West Tennessee Veterans Coalition met Wednesday to award businesses, organizations, and individuals who support their mission.
Awards were presented to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Police Department, Madison Downs, the Jackson Energy Authority, and more:
- Wayne Collins – DAV Jackson Chapter 7
- Michael Tessero – DoubleTree Catering
- Thom Corley – Jackson Police Dept
- Barry Clark – Veteran Supporter
- Julian Wiser and Stan Fugate- Madison County Sheriff
- Marianne Dunavant – Blue Oval City
- Janet Wilbanks – JEA
- Clarenita Hamilton – Madison Downs
- Bruce Bond – Jackson Farmer’s Market
- Jason Moore – Jackson Madison EMA
- Emily Goodwin – WBBJ
“Thanking them for supporting our goal, our motto which is ‘Supporting those who served,’” said Jackie Utley, the Chair of the West Tennessee Veterans Coalition.
One of the big categories this year was the Veterans in Crisis program, which helps with essential items like utilities, housing, and groceries.
“So far this year, since January 1, we have assisted 47 veterans,” Utley said.
In addition to the 2023 awards was the final meeting of the year.
The council discussed an end-of-the-year report from fundraisers that were held in 2023 and what is to be expected in the upcoming year.
“One of our new initiatives is honoring a veteran-owned business of the month. So if you are a veteran-owned business, or if you know of a veteran-owned business, please let us know,” said Utley.
Tommy Baker, Commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Veteran Service, expresses what it means to have organizations come together as a community to help veterans.
“It cannot all be done at state government level or a county government level. It takes volunteers that are in the community that know the community and that are willing to give their time and effort and resources to go out and do those things that veterans are very appreciative of,” Baker said.
More certificates of appreciation will be presented in January for those who were unable to attend Wednesday’s meeting.
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