VA director passionate about supporting vets
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MIFFLINTOWN -- A new year brings a new face to the Juniata County Veterans Affairs office with the hiring of Donald Peters III -- who will serve as the department's director.
Peters served in the United States Army, the PA Army National Guard, the PA Air National Guard for 21 years, retiring as a technical sergeant. More recently, he retired from the United States Penitentiary in Lewisburg.
"As a veteran myself, going through and gaining experience on how it works will greatly help the veterans. I'm passionate about serving and advocating for the needs of our nation's heroes. I will aim to connect each veteran with the proper resources available to them, ensuring exceptional care and support within the Juniata County Veterans' Affairs Office," said Peters.
Peters plans to continue his education and widen his knowledge base to bring the best information to the office to help the county's veterans.
Peters is a lifetime Juniata County resident.
"With myself -- a retired and disabled Air Force and Army combat veteran -- I've been through the VA system and it's not an easy task to get benefits that you are entitled to," Peters said, adding that he hopes to use that knowledge to make it easier for others to get benefits.
Peters also plans to be more involved in community outreach, including with the local VFW, AMVETS, American Legion and the Juniata County Veterans Council and surrounding county VA offices.
"I love my new role and anytime I get to help my fellow veterans and their family is a blessing. I've been in their shoes, so If I can help them or give hope that's a great feeling," said Peters.
Peters is replacing Dennis Hutchings, who served as Juniata County's VA director for six years.