County Council Honors Local Veterans

Posted On: December 4, 2024

Local veterans took center stage at the Dec. 3 Volusia County Council meeting, where the elected officials honored them for their dedication to protecting our great nation and our freedoms.

“Our veterans are the steel spine of this nation, and their families are the courageous heart because they also serve and sacrifice so much for our country,” said At-large Member Jake Johansson, who organized the recognition ceremony.

The County Council also recognized Volusia County’s Veterans Services Division, which assists all former and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces, their spouses, and dependents in preparing claims for compensation, pension, vocational training, and other benefits and privileges. Last year alone, the County’s veterans services officers assisted more than 17,000 veterans.

Council members gave hearty accolades to Veterans Services Director Robert Watson, who will retire on Jan. 3 after heading the division for the past seven years. Watson served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 21 years and has been a veterans services officer for 30 years, having worked for the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

With support from the County Council and Administration, Mr. Watson has led the division with honor and integrity and developed a world-class training program, increased the number of veterans services officers, and brought together many community services, allowing Volusia County to enhance services and help a greater number of veterans.