Nichols is on the job as new Veterans Services Officer

Alleghany native and Operation Desert Storm veteran Sam Nichols started his new position as Alleghany County Veterans Service Officer on Nov. 1, 2006. Nichols succeeded Eldon Edwards, who held the position for about 30 years.

As a veteran, Nichols said he applied for the position because of an interest in helping other vets. "I've been interested in trying to help the veterans out," he said. "I am partial to taking care of the veterans."

Nichols left the area to join the armed forces, first in the Air Force, a service in which he stayed more than nine years. He then spent about five years with the Army's Active Guard and Reserves, and rounded out his military career serving about 11 years in the Army.

In 2001, Nichols retired and moved back to Alleghany County, where he, at different periods after his return, took jobs as a truck driver and in the area of carpentry.

After learning of the position at the Veteran's Service Office, Nichols applied, and after an interview process that involved local officials and representative of Department of Veterans Affairs in Clemmons, he was selected for the position.

As a veterans service officer, Nichols serves as a liaison between the local veterans and the Veterans Administration.

The officer also assists veterans when they are applying for benefits for their compensation, pensions, as well as those who are interested in having a grave marker placed for a deceased veteran.

Programs

Nichols is presently in a training period in his new job; he has to be in the position for one year before he is certified. After cer New Veterans Service Officer Sam Nichols looks over paperwork at his desk at the VFW building.

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