During a Veteran’s Day Celebration at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2015, Principal Chief Patrick Lambert, Sgt. Clifford Long, Maj. William Underwood and former Principal Chief Robert S. Youngdeer, a decorated Marine veteran, place a wreath honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in military service. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather photos)
In Principal Chief Patrick Lambert’s first budget, he created a first-of-its-kind position in Indian Country, a Veterans Service Coordinator.
“The job of the Veterans Service Coordinator’s position is to work alongside our veteran’s community and aid them in receiving services they so rightfully deserve,” stated Chief Lambert. “Whether its health-care related, needing help going back to school, or receiving housing, our Cherokee veterans will now have someone who is fully dedicated to their success. No person who has worn the uniform of the United States should ever have to go without, and under my administration I’ll make sure they receive the honor and dignity that’s due.”
As a United States Army veteran, Chief Lambert put a priority on the creation of this new position – making this one of his major achievements in his first 100 days since taking office. The creation of this new position was a major piece in Chief Lambert’s platform this past summer, after holding a veterans roundtable where he spoke at length with local veterans on their issues and concerns.
“Too often I heard from our veterans and others that we need a dedicated professional whose sole purpose is to work alongside and advocate for these heroes,” said Chief Lambert.
The Veterans Service Coordinator will be housed under the Department of Public Health and Human Services and will work closely with the Principal Chief, Secretary of Public Health and Human Services, and other community stakeholders.
For more information on Chief Lambert and his work on behalf of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, please visit his Facebook page: Patrick Lambert – Principal Chief.
– Office of the Principal Chief
