Jefferson County Veterans Affairs director shares insight into military service, work with veterans

Editor's note: The following story was submitted by Fairfield resident John Miller, who interviewed Jefferson County Veterans Affairs Commission director Ray Chambers about his work with veterans and his military service.

Does every county have a Veterans Affairs Commission?

Every county in Iowa has a commission made of three or five members. Our commissioners are Howard Garrison, Michelle Manning and Paul Corbin. Each county either has a director or administrator. A director is a veteran, an administrator is not. Depending on population of the county, offices are required to open at least 20, 30 or 40 hours a week. Jefferson County is open 24 hours a week.

Where did you serve in the military?

I joined the Iowa National Guard in HHC 224th Engineer Battalion September 1980. In January 1985, I began my full-time career with the Iowa National Guard in the 34th Army Band. I spent three years as their unit clerk. I then returned to HHC 224 Engineer Battalion in 1988. I retired Dec. 31, 2006.

What were you assigned to do in the 224th?

I started out as motor transport operator; then combat engineer; then clerk typist; Battalion Supply Non-Commissioned Officer; and my last duty was the Readiness Non-Commissioned Officer.

Where are you from? Are you an 'Iowa boy?”

I was born in Fairfield; I lived all my life in Packwood. In fact, the statue on the square of the old man, he was my great-great-great grandfather William Coop.

Are you from a military family?

Several relatives have served: uncles, aunts, my father and grandfather, but none were career military.

Does any part of your military duty stand out as unique?

Our two deployments, 1991 Desert Storm (to Germany), and for Iraq (2004). I was directed to stay here, in Fairfield, to assist families of those deployed with transition and with daily problems they faced. There were about 180 soldiers that did not deploy. Those who did not deploy were medically unable to deploy or soldiers that had not completed their initial training requirements. These soldiers still had training and medical requirements to be managed. They attended monthly and annual training events. We performed over 30 funeral services during the deployment. September 11, 2001 was intense; the events of that day and days following were an experience I won't forget.

When did you assume your present duties?

In July 2011. After retirement, I had jobs as a mechanic, Resource Officer for Ottumwa High School, and a surveyor. When this position was advertised, I knew I had to apply. This is more than just a job, it is a passion. If you are not passionate about it you cannot make the commitment to our veterans that is needed.

How has the job been?

Very rewarding! It's been an honor to serve those who have served us; making sure they get the benefits they're entitled to. I assist them in processing claims and getting health benefits and other benefits that may be available.

What else do you do?

The office has a limited amount of money that helps with rent and utilities for veterans with low income.

Do you provide any other veterans services?

I coordinate monthly coffees, September through May, to bring veterans together to share information and experiences. It is hosted by Hy-Vee, The Oaks, and Sunnybrook West. About 10-15 veterans show up each month. They mostly are Korea/Vietnam veterans and a few WWII veterans. For the past six years, we have had events at the Press Box at Kinnick Stadium. It was held Sept. 14 and over 500 Veterans and family members attended.

What are your hours of operation?

Chambers: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, or by appointment. The office phone number is 641-472-3013 or contact us by email: va51@jeffersoncountyia.com.

Do any special stories of your service here come to mind?

Some veterans have no idea what their benefits are. In my office, we are able to sit down and talk about benefits they have earned, be it health care, compensation or something else. We are able to get financial support for some veterans and surviving spouses because of income and medical expenses. Several currently in nursing homes are entitled to those benefits. I can help with grave markers, or burial plots in national or state cemeteries. Through our national organization, National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, there are service officers across the nation to help veterans-whether it is Arizona, Florida, Texas, wherever, for veterans who are moving. For example, I can get them connected with Veteran Service Officers in those areas. I help people with information on Honor Flights, a day in Washington D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated to our nation's war veterans. This is a very busy, very rewarding day, totally funded by voluntary donations. There is also a variety of state benefits available for Veteran and their families.

Any concluding thoughts?

I'm privileged to serve those who have served.