East Cobb Veterans & Military

Three graduate from Cobb County Veterans Treatment Court  

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Three graduate from Cobb County Veterans Treatment Court  

Submitted information and photos:

The Cobb County Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court (VATC) graduated three veteran participants during a 9:30 a.m. ceremony Friday, Feb. 6, at the Cobb County Superior Court Building, 70 Haynes Street.

The graduation brings the total number of local participants who have completed the 18- to 24-month intensive treatment program to 72. The Cobb County VATC began June 13, 2014, under the leadership of Judge Reuben Green, joining a nationwide surge of accountability courts specifically tailored for veterans. The program addresses post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and other mental health issues through counseling, job training, and additional supportive services.

Judge Green, a U.S Marine Corps veteran, served as a judge through 2020 and passed away in 2025. The VATC honored his legacy during Friday’s ceremony, unveiling a painted portrait and placing a custom embroidered streamer on the Marine Corps flag. His portrait will be displayed in the VATC, courtroom 6100, in Superior Court.

“As a Marine, Judge Green brought his passion for helping military servicemembers in need into the courtroom,” said Superior Court Judge Robert D. Leonard. “He was a trailblazer with a reputation for excellence and for changing lives. Veterans Court is his legacy.”

The mission of the Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court is to increase public safety by reducing recidivism, alleviating the tax burden of incarcerating law-breaking veterans, and helping participants become productive members of the community. The program provides intensive case management to address mental health issues while offering the familiarity of structure and accountability similar to military service.

Participants receive alcohol and drug treatment through contracted treatment providers and the Department of Veterans Affairs. When a participant is stable in their recovery and treatment, the assigned VATC team addresses other issues that hinder success, such as unemployment, lack of stable housing, the need for continuing education, or the benefits of family counseling.

One unique aspect of the VATC is the Mentor Program. Each participant is paired with a veteran mentor who understands the challenges faced by veterans working toward program completion. VATC mentors must be honorably discharged from military service, have no prior criminal record, and commit to assisting at least one veteran for the duration of the 18-month VATC program.

The three veteran participants graduated from the VATC with their mentors by their sides. These veterans turned what once seemed like a dismal path into a very bright future for themselves and their families.

Three graduate from Cobb County Veterans Treatment Court  

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Cobb reverses course, approves $2M for veterans memorial

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Cobb approves $2M for veterans memorial

Several months after rejecting a request to spend $1 million to help finance a veterans memorial, Cobb commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved allocating $2 million to help get the long-awaited project started.

After some discussion, commissioners agreed to revise the 2022 Cobb sales tax (SPLOST) revenues to allocate an additional $2 million to help close a funding gap for the memorial, to be built near the Cobb Civic Center.

That project, begun by the private Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation, is expected to cost a little more than $6 million, and design revisions will be necessary.

Donna Rowe

In August, commissioners rejected a proposal by Commissioner JoAnn Birrell of East Cobb to use $1 million from her contingency account, citing issues with a memorandum of understanding and concerns over rising costs stated by the private group.

However, on Tuesday, commissioners said the situation was different, and that the $2 million isn’t diverting funding from other needed projects, or those on the SPLOST project list.

Commissioner Erick Allen, whose District 2 includes the area where the memorial will be built, said there were no other viable funding solutions to start the project, which has been more than a decade in the making.

There are unresolved administrative issues, and Cobb PARKS director Michael Brantley said that a project designer needs to be hired to develop a new conceptual plan.

Cobb commissioners previously approved spending $3 million in what’s been billed as a private-public-partnership. Cobb has more than 60,000 veterans

The original cost was priced at $8 million, but private fundraising struggles have delayed the project. Commissioner Keli Gambrill asked Brantley if doubling the spending request from last August would be enough to complete the project.

He said it would not, “but it would be extremely close” based on the latest estimates “on what it would take to build out.”

Brantley added that there is not a designer hired yet to provide more specific renderings and details, and that there are several options available.

He said “having the funding in place” would ideally be needed to “move forward to start looking at those options.”

Gambrill also said she was disappointed other community projects weren’t included in the vote. Deputy county manager Bill Volckmann told her another list would be forthcoming, but this one was submitted to reflect “the priorities of the board.”

Birrell, who has been vocal about supporting the veterans memorial, said the memorial was always slated to be a county park. She said a new MOU will be produced and said that “there is still work to be done, but what we’re trying to do today is to get to the $5 million and solidify this once and for all.

Donna Rowe, head of the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation, a former Army nurse in Vietnam, told commissioners before the vote that “I cannot deeply express the gratitude of every veteran in Cobb County and Georgia, or those that I served with in battle, but I do want you to do know that the hours spent, the months spent by you do not fall on deaf ears.”

“I cannot thank you enough.”

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Cobb veterans to lay wreaths at Marietta National Cemetery

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Georgia National Cemetery wreaths

The Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation will be laying wreaths at Marietta National Cemetery to honor those buried there for the Christmas holiday.

It’s part of the Wreaths Across America program and will take place on Saturday, Dec. 13.

The foundation is seeking donations and sponsorships, as well as volunteers, and is inviting the public to take part in the ceremony. The event begins at 12 p.m. and the wreath placements will follow.

The Marietta National Cemetery is located at 500 Washington St., Marietta.

For more information and to sponsor a wreath (the cost is $17), please click here.

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Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

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Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

Submitted information and photos:

Connecting Georgia Veterans is pleased to announce the outstanding success of its inaugural Golf Tournament, held at the scenic Bentwater Golf Course in Acworth, Georgia. The event brought together community members, partners, and supporters for a meaningful day of camaraderie, competition, and purpose- all dedicated to strengthening services for Veterans across Georgia.

Over 40 golfers participated in the tournament, enjoying a full 18-hole course, friendly putting contests, and a lively auction featuring donated items that helped boost fundraising efforts. Thanks to the generosity and engagement of participants andsponsors, the event raised nearly $15,000, which will directly support programs and resources for Veterans experiencing hardship.

Tyler Bowser, Program Director of Connecting Georgia Veterans shared, “We are proud to share that this year’s golf tournament raised enough funds to provide emergency lodging for 30 Veteran families. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and every golfer who participated and made this impact possible. We look forward to teeing off again next year for another outstanding event.” It’s not too late to support the cause. Community members can still contribute by visiting www.cgvets.org to make a donation and help strengthen the network of care for Georgia Veterans.

Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

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Veterans at East Cobb schools recall their military service

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East Cobb Middle School Principal Michael Askew served in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Submitted information:

The spirit of service runs deep in the Cobb County School District, where military veterans continue their mission by shaping young minds. From principals and teachers to social workers and custodians, these heroes bring lessons of leadership, perseverance, and purpose from the armed forces into Cobb classrooms every day.

At Rocky Mount Elementary, Social Worker Paul Pursell, a former U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant, says persistence learned in the military guides his work with families. “So much of what I learned in training really translates to what we do here,” he shared.

East Cobb Middle School Principal Michael Askew, a U.S. Marine veteran, uses his own story, learning algebra to set tank traps, to show students how classroom lessons can change lives.

At Tritt Elementary, kindergarten teacher Heather Garrett, a former U.S. Army specialist, surprises her students each Veterans Day when they learn she once worked in an Army motor pool. “My kids are always shocked to learn on Veterans Day that I am a veteran of the United States Army,” she said.

Rocky Mount custodian Winston Wilkinson, who served 15 years in the U.S. Navy, and Fair Oaks Elementary Principal Cathie Seibert, a former U.S. Army tank driver, both bring discipline, teamwork, and pride to their roles continuing their commitment to service in new ways.

This Veterans Day, Cobb Schools celebrates all who served and those who continue to serve by educating and inspiring the next generation. Their stories remind us that service doesn’t end with a uniform; it lives on in our schools, hallways, and classrooms.

More from the Cobb County School District by clicking here.

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We Care Vet Fair returns to Cobb Civic Center Oct. 21

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Submitted information:East Cobb-based non-profit to hold veterans resource fair

United Military Care Hosts “We Care Vet Fair” October 21 in Marietta

Marietta, GA – While Washington debates, United Military Care is taking action. On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, United Military Care will host the “We Care Vet Fair” at the Cobb County Civic Center in Marietta from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, ensuring that veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors continue receiving the support they’ve earned — regardless of the federal shutdown.

This free, one-day event is packed with vital services and resources, including:

  • VA Benefits Enrollment and Review
  • Filing of New Claims and Appeals Assistance
  • Free Legal Assistance On-Site
  • Free Food Giveaway for Veterans and Families
  • Meet and Greet with Special Guest Ms. Earline, 100-Year-Old Rosie the Riveter

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with over 90 local, state, and national organizations dedicated to supporting veterans as they navigate life after military service. From healthcare to housing, education to employment — it’s all under one roof.

“Veterans don’t get to take a day off from their needs, so neither do we,” said Kim Scofi, President of United Military Care. “Shutdown or not, we’re standing with those who served.”

The event is open to all veterans, their family members, caregivers, and survivors — no registration required.

Location:

Cobb County Civic Center

548 South Marietta Parkway SE

Marietta, GA 30060

For more information, visit: www.UnitedMilitaryCare.org

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Cobb rejects additional county funding for veterans memorial

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Cobb rejects additional county funding for veterans memorial

Some Cobb veterans showed up in dress uniforms. Others were attired to indicate the details and places of their military service.

On Tuesday a few dozen of them showed up to convince Cobb commissioners to spend an additional $1 million in county funding for a veterans memorial.

But even after their emotional comments, commissioners turned down the request by a 4-1 vote.

Commissioners had an extra $175 million to allocate in current 2022 Cobb SPLOST (Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax) revenues, due to healthy economic activity.

According to SPLOST regulations, only projects on the list that were submitted to voters for the sales tax referendum are eligible for the additional funds.

But while the Cobb Veterans Memorial, which has been in the works for a decade at the behest of county officials, was on the 2022 SPLOST list, it wasn’t on the list of items eligible for the $175 million in additional revenues.

Commissioner JoAnn Birrell

So Commissioner JoAnn Birrell of East Cobb proposed taking $1 million in her contingency account for the development of Ebenezer Downs Park and transfer that amount to the veterans memorial to complete the project.

But she couldn’t get any of her colleagues to go along, and was openly frustrated at the proceedings.

“How can you put a price tag on our veterans?” Birrell asked, near the end of delivering prepared remarks.

Due to construction cost increases, the veterans memorial, which is being proposed for a site at Larry Bell Park in Marietta, was priced at nearly $8 million.

The county had already committed $3 million—$1 million in previous SPLOST allocations and $2 million from Birrell and Chairwoman Lisa Cupid in other discretionary funds.

Another $1 million been raised by the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation, a non-profit. The foundation reduced the scope of the memorial to get the cost to just under $5 million, cutting out a POW memorial and honor walls.

Cobb has an estimated 60,000 military veterans, and Birrell asked those in attendance Tuesday to stand, and they did, to applause.

Vietnam veteran T.D. Jorgensen

One of them, Skip Bell, a member of the memorial’s board, said that “it’s easy to say you love and support veterans.

“Everybody says that. You are in a position,” he told commissioners, to prove that support.

But that didn’t sway new Commissioner Erick Allen, whose District 2 includes the proposed memorial site.

He noted that other park projects on the list for additional revenues “aren’t getting anything over and above what was on the original list” and pledged to help raise the money from private sources to close that $1 million gap.

He added that the original memorandum of understanding didn’t intend for the memorial to be a county-funded project, and said the elements of the memorial that don’t have funding now could be added later.

“We can break ground today with the funding that has been raised and with the funds that have been committed,” calling his suggestion a compromise.

Allen also said it was “insulting” to hear accusations that his opposition to another $1 million in county funds was likened to “spitting on the veterans coming home from Vietnam.”

Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation president Donna Rowe

But Donna Rowe, the memorial foundation’s board president and a former captain in the U.S. Army nursing corps in Vietnam, recounted that history from her perspective, and rattled off the changing cost estimates and county stipulations for getting the work done.

“We cannot do this in phases,” she said in response to Allen, thanking Birrell and Cupid for their “undying devotion” to getting the memorial built.

After the vote, Marietta resident Donald Barth, a frequent public commenter, said the memorial can be completed without more public funding.

“We are going to have a memorial and we all know it,” he said. “We need people who will move the ball forward.”

That summed up the thoughts of some of the veterans who were hoping for a different vote.

“There are Americans who are going to support this with or without you,” Vietnam veteran T.D. Jorgensen said, thanking Rowe and the others advocating for the memorial.

“God bless you. We need this.”

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10th anniversary of Skip Wells’ death to be commemorated

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Next Wednesday marks the 10th anniversary of the death of Skip Wells and four other military personnel who were shot and killed during a terrorist attack in Chattanooga, Tenn.10th anniversary of Skip Wells' death to be commemorated

Wells was a Sprayberry High School graduate who was a Marine lance corporal at the time of his death.

Wednesday’s ceremony takes place at 10:30 a.m. at the Committal Service Shelter 1, Georgia National Cemetery, 1080 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton.

That’s where Wells, who was 21, was laid to rest. He had served in the Marines for a year, and was on a temporary assignment in Chattanooga.

“The public, fellow Marines, veterans, and community members are welcome to reflect on the sacrifices of LCpl Wells and his comrades,” Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell noted in her weekly e-mail newsletter Thursday.

A gunman, Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez, 24, went to three military recruiting offices in the Chattanooga area in a 30-minute span on the morning of July 16, 2015 and opened fire.

Wells and the four others who died were shot at the Navy Operational Support Center/Marine Corps Reserve Center, the second location on the rampage, which ended a short time later at a third location at which Abdulazeez was shot and killed by law enforcement.

As the attack reached his location, Wells texted his girlfriend “ACTIVE SHOOTER,” the final message he would send. He and Caroline Dove met as students at Georgia Southern University before he followed a long family tradition of serving in the military.

Wells’ mother was watching television coverage of the shootings with Marines visited the family home to deliver the tragic news.

Wells, Marine Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan, Marine Staff Sgt. David A. Wyatt, Marine Sgt. Carson L. Holmquist and Navy Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Randall Smith were posthumously awarded the Purple Heart in 2016.

The FBI declared the attacks an instance of domestic terrorism. Authorities found multiple weapons in the home and vehicle of Abdulazeez, who grew up in the Chattanooga area and was from a Muslim family hailing from Kuwait.

At Sprayberry, Wells was a member of the Band of Gold marching band, playing for four years, and also played in the symphonic band.

Wells served in the 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve. He had received the National Defense Service Medal and an Certificate of Appreciation.

Cobb County honored Wells’ memory by renaming what had been Bells Ferry Park the Skip Wells Park.

In 2017, the U.S. Postal Service office on Sandy Plains Road was named in Wells’ honor.

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St. Ann, Holy Family groups to take part in Memorial Day Mass

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Members of the Knights of Columbus from the Catholic Church of St. Ann and Holy Family Catholic Church in East Cobb will taking part in a Memorial Day Mass on Monday in Marietta.

The K of C Assembly 3770 from St. Ann will be joined by Assembly 2161, comprising the Holy Family, St. Joseph and St. Thomas parishes at the service at the Marietta National Cemetery starting at 9 a.m. Monday.

According to a message on the St. Ann website, “the Most Reverend Gregory J. Hartmayer, Archbishop of Atlanta, will concelebrate a commemorative Mass with other Atlanta Archdiocesen bishops and offer a homily of gratitude to the deceased veterans. The public is invited. Seating and parking are complimentary made available for the audience.”

Here’s more about what will transpire at the service:

“A contingent of Knights of the Fourth Degree—the highest ranking, or ‘Patriotic’ level of the order—will escort the Archbishop to the cemetery’s marble-columned rostrum, which will be draped with red, white and blue bunting. Other members will form a color guard and post the colors for the National Anthem.

“A section of the fraternal assembly from St. Ann’s parish—’The Note-able Knights’—will stand at attention during the Mass. Accompanied by their church keyboardist, Ed Bolduc, the ‘Note-ables’ will lead the congregation in liturgical hymns, such as The 23rd Psalm and How Great Thou Art, followed by a professional solo trumpeter, who will perform Taps at the end of the Mass. The program will conclude with the singing of God Bless America as the Archbishop and Honor Guard exit in procession.”

The Knights of Columbus have sponsored the Marietta Mass since 1988 to honor more than 17,000 veterans who have fallen during America’s wars.

Parking is provided in the Switzer Library parking lot as well as a trolley to transport attendees to the Mass site.

The Cemetery is located at 50 Washington Ave. in Marietta.

The National Memorial Day Association of Georgia will be holding a Memorial Day observation at the cemetery starting at 12 p.m.

The keynote speaker is Dr. Michael Shannon, President of the University of North Georgia, with remarks also from Brigadier General Dennis Watts, Commanding General, Georgia Defense Force.

More on Monday’s service can be found here.

 

 

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Cobb Veterans Memorial to hold fundraising gala event

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Submitted information:Cobb Veterans Memorial groundbreaking

Celebrate veterans with a VIP reception, dinner, dancing, and silent auction, 6 p.m., Saturday, May 17, at the Marriott Atlanta Northwest at Galleria, 200 Interstate North Parkway SE, Atlanta. Tickets are now available on the website. Proceeds will help build the Cobb Veterans Memorial. Email cvmfmilitaryballgala@gmail.com for more information.

The Cobb Veterans Memorial is a project planned as a park to honor veterans, teach history, and inspire future generations to live meaningful and purposeful lives of service. 

Steps you can take right now to support the project are:

  • Click Facebook.com/CobbVetMemorial to “Like” the project on Facebook

  • Make a donation HERE to help raise the funds to start construction of the Memorial. Every dollar helps!

  • Want to do even more? If you would like to host a fundraising event, make a corporate/foundation donation, or help some other way, please email contact@cobbvmf.com.

 

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Former East Cobb resident embarks upon Mt. Everest trek

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Last week we heard from Brian O’Malley, a former East Cobb resident we talked to recently about his upcoming attempt to scale Mount Everest.

On Tuesday he began that journey to Nepal, and taped this message on his Facebook page before heading off.

He and his wife Shelley, who raised their three children here—all Lassiter High School graduates—recently relocated to the Northern Virginia area to be closer to them for the next couple of years.

O’Malley is using the trip with his brother-in-law to raise funds for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which provides mortgage-free homes for the families of fallen first responders, Gold Star families, and catastrophically injured veterans and first responders.

They’re calling it the “Boomer Veterans  and First Responders Mt Everest Summit Expedition 2025” and they’ve raised more than $16,000 thus far, about two-thirds of their goal (you can donate here).

Here’s more about his “why” that he furnished to us, with details on his family’s long history of military service, including two of his three children. Luke O’Malley is currently attending the U.S. Naval Academy, like his parents and one of his sisters:

Why am I attempting to summit Mt Everest? 

“Because it’s there.” Famous quote by early English Everest mountaineer George Mallory. 

Since my latest successful back surgery about a year ago which has resulted in me feeling better than I have in 40+ years, I made a decision to attempt one of the ultimate physical and mental endeavors on this earth. I’ve always been enthralled by Mt Everest. The “records” of oldest Navy Veteran, top 10 oldest ever, etc, are also contributing factors that helped push me during training and helped me get both my physical body and my mind in a positive attitude and direction while attempting one of the most challenging endeavors out there, summiting Mt Everest. 

Why do I want to support Tunnel to Towers Foundation, “T2T”?

Simple…T2T’s mission to assist first responders and our military when they are most in need for our support. Few really know exactly what our first responders and military personnel experience on a continuous basis, especially when extreme tragedy strikes them and their families. Frank Siller and T2T is the absolute best resource for these people in their deepest moments of need. There are so many examples of what T2T actually does for our National Heroes who protect us domestically and internationally that I hope to bring awareness to throughout my expedition to summit My Everest. I wholeheartedly want to bring continued awareness and financial support to this incredible helpful organization, T2T.

With the utmost humility and sincerity, God has blessed me and my life with so much; the most loving wife in the world, amazing kids and family, special loved ones, incredible friends, great leaders and some personal somewhat decent physical abilities. I feel that it is my obligation, while I still can, to do His will and to help those who need it most.

I’ve also been extremely blessed to have incredible parents, family, friends (especially my Aurora, IL buddies from elementary school, the “Click”, my teachers, squadron mates (especially my F-14 Tomcat Black Knight squadron mates), teammates, military and civilian leaders and peers whom have supported me and have offered continued encouragement during my life of service and always doing my very best with my God given talents. We have all experienced and know that life on this earth can be very fragile and God often calls his Angels (our loved ones and friends) at anytime…many times when we least expect it. I am so blessed and I truly believe that life on this earth is but a nanosecond in time and that we will all be together again in His Majesty’s Grace for Eternity. While I can, I want to continue to challenge the talents blessed upon me by God and do what I can to help those true heroes in our Nation whom protect all of us at home (first responders) and abroad (military service personnel). 

What connection do I have to T2T? 

T2T has been one of our family’s favorite charities mainly due to our immediate connection to the very people T2T supports. Namely:<

Myself: 1986 U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Naval Flight officer for approximately 10 years. 

My wife of 35+ years, Shelley O’Malley: 1987 U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Naval Aviator for about 10 years. I owe everything to my wife, Shelley. She has always supported me and has been the “rock” of our family. Shelley, among other incredibly great life accomplishments, was the first female Aircraft Carrier Landing Signals Officer “LSO”. I could not do what I’m embarking on without the support of my beautiful, loving, caring, tough, dedicated (not enough positive acronyms to describe) love of my life! Shelley is the main reason that I can focus and do what I can to both challenge myself and to help others through organizations such as the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. 

My children:

Shannon McKinney: U.S. Naval Academy “2015” Naval Academy recruit and “Academy Summer Seminar Attendee and candidate”; University of Georgia College All-American and 2 x National Champion; 2 x Olympic Trials Qualifier and World Ironman Triathlon Championship qualifier conducted in Helsinki, Finland. 

Lauren O’Malley Stephenson: U.S. Naval Academy 2019 graduate and Brigade Commander (highest student leadership position at the Naval Academy); Naval Surface Warfare Officer; Served high-level Naval leadership in daily analysis of combat operations and readiness. 

Luke O’Malley: U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman (Class of 2027) and future U.S. Naval Officer and Leader. of 2027)

Son-in-Law: Jared Stephenson, U.S. Naval Academy 2018 graduate and active Marine Corps Infantry Officer. 

Father: James O’Malley, Retired Aurora / Chicago area Firefighter 

Mother: Edna Mae O’Malley: Retired Nurse

Father-in-Law: James Laurilla, U.S. Airforce Veteran 

Brother-in-Law: Steve McDaniel, U.S. Airforce Veteran, State of Georgia police officer and accompanied me on the approximate 100 mile trek through the Himalayas to Everest Base Camp. Steve is an incredible inspiration and high-achiever and loving husband to my sister, Kari McDaniel (a Naval and Airforce Officer spouse and nurse). 

Best Man and Life Brother: Steve Wisotzki, 1986 U.S. Naval Academy graduate; U.S. Navy Special Operations (Seal)

Brother-In-Law: JP Aragon, U.S. Naval Aviator 

Niece: Natalie Aragon, U.S. Naval Medical Nursing Corps Officer

Nephew: Camden Aragon, U.S. Naval Aviator

Special consideration and appreciation to our incredible lifelong community of friends in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, in the Chicago / Aurora area and the Norfolk / Virginia Beach, Virginia area, my loving family, teammates, squadron mates, professors, and much loved peers whom have always supported me and our family throughout our life’s journey. 

 

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Cobb Veterans Memorial group to hold fundraising gala

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Submitted information:Cobb Veterans Memorial groundbreaking

Celebrate veterans with a VIP reception, dinner, dancing, and silent auction, 6 p.m., Saturday, May 17, at the Marriott Atlanta Northwest at Galleria, 200 Interstate North Parkway SE, Atlanta. Tickets are now available on the website. Proceeds will help build the Cobb Veterans Memorial. Email cvmfmilitaryballgala@gmail.com for more information.

The Cobb Veterans Memorial is a project planned as a park to honor veterans, teach history, and inspire future generations to live meaningful and purposeful lives of service. 

Steps you can take right now to support the project are:

  • Click Facebook.com/CobbVetMemorial to “Like” the project on Facebook

  • Make a donation HERE to help raise the funds to start construction of the Memorial. Every dollar helps!

  • Want to do even more? If you would like to host a fundraising event, make a corporate/foundation donation, or help some other way, please email contact@cobbvmf.com.

 

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Every Sunday we round up the week’s top headlines and preview the upcoming week in the East Cobb News Digest. Click here to sign up, and you’re good to go!

Connecting Cobb Veterans renamed Connecting Georgia Veterans

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Submitted information:

The organization formerly known as Connecting Cobb Veterans is proud to announce its official rebranding to Connecting Georgia Veterans. This exciting transition reflects the organization’s commitment to broadening its impact and serving veterans throughout the entire state of Georgia.

Since its inception, Connecting Cobb Veterans has been a vital resource for veterans in Cobb County, offering a range of services, including career assistance, mental health support, and community-building initiatives. By expanding its focus and adopting the name Connecting Georgia Veterans, the organization aims to extend these services to a wider audience, ensuring that veterans from all corners of the state have access to the support they need to thrive.

Quote from Tyler Bowser, Program Director: “This rebranding marks a significant milestone for our organization. While we will always honor our roots in Cobb County, we recognize the growing demand for statewide support. Connecting Georgia Veterans represents our dedication to serving as a trusted partner and resource for all veterans across Georgia. Together, we can create stronger, more connected communities that honor and uplift those who have served our country.”

The transition includes a refreshed logo, updated branding materials, and a new website designed to provide easy access to resources, events, and support services for Georgia veterans. The organization will also be launching statewide outreach initiatives to connect with veterans and their families in underserved areas.

Connecting Georgia Veterans will continue to collaborate with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses to offer programs and services tailored to the unique needs of veterans. By fostering these partnerships, the organization ensures that every veteran has the tools and opportunities they need to lead fulfilling lives.

To learn more about Connecting Georgia Veterans and its mission, please visit www.cgvets.org or contact Tyler Bowser at 470-479-1551.

About Connecting Georgia Veterans Connecting Georgia Veterans is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families across the state of Georgia. Through a comprehensive range of programs, the organization addresses VA benefits, mental health, housing, and community engagement, ensuring that veterans receive the resources and benefits they deserve.

 

 

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Chamber to honor veterans, name East Cobb Citizen of the Year

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The final East Cobb Area Council of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce breakfast of 2024 takes place Thursday.

Chamber to honor veterans name East Cobb Citizen of the Year
Travis Ellis

The event takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Indian Hills Country Club (4001 Clubland Drive) and features a special tribute to veterans.

The 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year also will be named.

The deadline to register is Monday and can be done by clicking here. The cost ranges from $30 for Cobb Chamber members to $40 for non-members.

Here’s more on the veterans’ portion of the program, involving the Shepherd’s Men organization:

“Ten years ago, a movement was born in Cobb County. Travis Ellis and his friends had a dream to create something bigger than themselves in support of our nation’s veteran heroes affected by the hidden injuries of war. That dream came to life in the form of Shepherd’s Men. Their mission is simple. They would raise funds and awareness for the SHARE Military Initiative, a life-saving program for post-9/11 military veterans at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. Each year, they set out on grueling multi-state runs and rucks, symbolically sharing the burden these veterans face each day. Ten years later, Shepherd’s Men has run more than 5,000 miles and raised over $11 million for SHARE, covering the annual clinical budget of $1.2 million and growing the number of veterans served each year.
 
“Join us for this moving program featuring a fireside chat with Shepherd’s Men co-founder, Travis Ellis, and a long-time supporter and Marine Veteran, Mitch Rhoden. Travis and Mitch will reflect on ten years of life-saving impact through Shepherd’s Men, what’s on the horizon, and how you can help amplify their impact. In addition to their roles with Shepherd’s Men, Travis and Mitch are local business owners and long-time Chamber members. Travis runs Mobilized Fuels in Marietta, GA and has served as a Chairman for the Cobb Chamber’s Honorary Commanders Program. Mitch is the President and CEO of Futren Hospitality and is a Past Chairman of the Cobb Chamber Board of Directors.”

KSU ranked highly in survey for military veterans

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KSU ranked highly in survey for military veterans

Submitted information and photo:

Military Times has recognized Kennesaw State University as one of the nation’s top schools for veterans in its 2024 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings.

The annual Military Times list spotlights the top colleges and universities for military service members and veterans. The 2024 ranking reflects Kennesaw State’s commitment to providing resources and opportunities to the university’s more than 2,000 military-connected students, including nearly 600 veterans.

“Kennesaw State University is proud to support our nation’s veterans in pursuit of their academic and career goals,” KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig said. “This recognition from Military Times reflects our priority to provide a world-class education to students who have served their country, and we will continue to offer support systems that help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.”

Kennesaw State was the first University System of Georgia institution to open a Military and Veteran Services (MVS) department, in 2009, which continues to serve as a comprehensive, easily accessible resource hub for service members, veterans and dependents who want to start or continue their college education. Part of Student Affairs, Military and Veteran Services assists military-connected students with enrolling at KSU, applying for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs educational benefits, and tapping into resources such as counseling services and career planning.

Along with the resources available on campus, KSU Military and Veteran Services partners with more than 20 community organizations to support veterans. MVS also awards several scholarships, has an active Student Veterans of America chapter, and hosts programming throughout the year to engage all students and connect them with the resources they need.

“We understand the unique challenges that veterans face when transitioning to college life, and we are here to ensure they have the tools and support they need to succeed,” said Stacey Dixon, the director of KSU Military and Veteran Services and a 20-year Marine Corps veteran. “Our team is committed to empowering veterans and military-connected students by providing resources, guidance, and a strong community to help them achieve their aspirations.”

To determine its Best for Vets rankings, Military Times surveys hundreds of colleges and universities across the country about their offerings for veterans. The survey responses are factored along with a scoring rubric that evaluates data from multiple sources.

According to Military Times, student success metrics are the most important factor in determining the ranking of schools, followed closely by the range of military-specific resources and the level of financial assistance schools offer. Admissions and registration policies, human resources, and “assorted miscellaneous considerations” also factor into the scoring rubric.

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Cobb Veterans Day events include parade, East Cobb luncheon

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A veterans' appreciation at East Cobb ParkSubmitted information:

Cobb County Government offices, libraries, and PARKS facilities will be closed Monday, Nov. 11 in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. Events celebrating the day will be held throughout the county this week, including:

★ A Tribute to Veterans, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 at West Cobb Senior Center. Free. Learn the history behind Veterans Day and honor those who served.

★ Bravo to the Brave at North Cobb Senior Center – Coffee and sweets, 1 – 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8. 770-975-7740

★ Kennesaw Veterans Day Luncheon, noon Friday, Nov. 8, at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. No registration needed.

★ Acworth Veterans Day Ceremony, 2 p.m. Nov. 11 at Patriot’s Point in Cauble Park, 4425 Beach Street, Acworth

★ Marietta Veterans Day Parade, The Horace Orr Post 29 American Legion and City of Marietta invites the public to honor the community’s veterans at the annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, Nov. 11, on the Marietta Square. The parade will start at 11 a.m., proceed down Roswell Street to the Square and at approximately 11:11 a.m., an observance will be held with a gun salute and Taps.

★ Smyrna Veterans Day ceremony, 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, at the Veterans Memorial (next to City Hall).

★ Veterans Day Lunch, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 13 at Tim Lee Senior Center. Free. Register here. 770-509-4900

 

 

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First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

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First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

Submitted information and photos:

How many times has a first responder positively impacted your life without you even realizing it? Probably more times than you can count. Recently, the Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team hosted three events in one week focused on the mental health of our local heroes to thank them for their services.

On October 9th, Janice opened her office’s front doors to all Firefighters, Police, Sheriff’s Deputy, Veterans, and local community heroes alike for the semi-annual First Responders Appreciation Lunch. These heroes were hungry for barbeque and appreciation, being the largest turnout of the semi-annual lunch in five years. Sitting down with officers who put their lives on the line every day, Janice heard their stories, laughed with them, and offered the well-deserved rest from protecting our community.

Leftover sweets from the event were not wasted, instead delivered to the Cherokee County 911 center, one of the first 911 Centers in the nation to create a foundation specifically for the mental health and overall nutritionment of the dispatchers.

The Cherokee County 911 Center has even adopted an office dog, named Ruby, to help lighten the emotional weight of the difficult conversations they face daily. Emergency operators are an often neglected aspect of crisis responding, but with this 501(c)(3) foundation, the community can give back to those on call for us 24/7. GA Senator John Albers explains that other public safety offices have established foundations for officers in times of need, which is revolutionary for the holistic health of first responders.

“Let’s say a dispatcher gets cancer, this is where we can help them out personally and internally.” The foundation acknowledges a budget gap hindering the ability to rightly serve our first responders in their times of need without additional tax burdens.

Janice also interviewed U.S. Congressman Rich McCormick about the lack of first responder mental health awareness that exists at the “Fireside Chat” on October 15th.

As an ER Doctor and a U.S. Marine, Congressman McCormick has a vital perspective on the physical and mental challenges first responders face on a daily basis. Working with community members, business owners like Janice Overbeck, and a U.S. Congressman was a great start to serve our local heroes and make lasting change in Metro Atlanta. This change can take form through policy initiative, supporting foundations, or simply saying thank you to a local hero.

For more information on community events at the Janice Overbeck Team office, visit The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/JaniceOverbeckRealEstateTeam/

First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

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East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

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East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

Submitted information and photos:

To his patients in and around East Cobb, he’s Dr. Brian Nadolne. But in Kosovo this spring and summer, Lt. Col. Brian Nadolne served with the 48th Brigade of the Georgia National Guard.

Dr. Nadolne was part of a U.S.-led NATO group at Camp Bondsteel, teaching fellow medical professionals.

“It was overall a good experience, and I think I represented Northside really well,” he said. “I think the mission, which is basically to maintain peace there, was a huge success.”

Dr. Nadolne joined Northside in 2016 when East Cobb Family Medicine became part of the Northside network. After serving as president of the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians, he looked for a new challenge and opportunity to serve.

“I said, ‘What else is there? What else can I do?’” He got his answer with the Georgia National Guard, where he found a leadership position that gave him the chance to represent fellow physicians.

“They needed family docs especially,” he said. “I joined and then in ’19 I was deployed to Iraq. I was in Camp Al Asad for three months and then a couple of years later, they needed me to go to Kosovo.”

While Dr. Nadolne was at Al Asad, the airbase sustained a ballistic missile strike in retaliation for the U.S. drone strike five days earlier that killed Iraq Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Quds force.

More than 100 troops were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries as a result.

“That was scary,” Dr. Nadolne said. “We always had our weapons with us. That was a much different deployment. We were always under threat of trauma.

“Even though it was a combat mission (to Kosovo), there was never really threat of combat.”

At Bondsteel, Dr. Nadolne taught search-and-rescue operations and the importance of speaking to patients.

“Don’t just jump to technology,” he said. “Technology’s important but I think there’s an overreliance on it.”

And he said there are lessons in return for the American medical professionals who go overseas with the military, like him.

“I think Army medical in general teaches you to think outside the box,” Dr. Nadolne said. “God forbid we have a major problem here, like a terrorist attack, you already have doctors in the Georgia National Guard that are already doing a lot of field medicine, how to deal with triaging.

“It kind of keeps you on your toes, with the importance of the true practice of medicine.”

Dr. Nadolne also served as the de facto brigade surgeon for troops in the Balkans.

“That was really nice,” he said. “Here, back at the 48th, I had been a battalion surgeon back in Cumming. Now I’m going to be the brigade surgeon out of Macon. My role’s going to change to be a little more operational.”

Outside his Guard service, Dr. Nadolne sees patients at the practice at 1121 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, in Marietta. He’s accepting new patients.

He thanked Dr. Amy Fallen and Rebecca Davis, CNP, for helping carry the load at home in his absence, as well as office manager Shalonda Burks and the East Cobb Family Medicine staff.

And Dr. Nadolne said Northside was supportive of his service.

“While I was gone, I nominated Steve Hudson (Northside’s director of physician and strategic development) for a Patriot Award,” Dr. Nadolne said. “I nominated him because I could not have done this without Steve Hudson. He supported me. He’s a former Marine. He supported me 100 percent, which means Northside supports me 100 percent.”

Dr. Nadolne said his work with the Guard is about more than seeing patients, but about serving Georgia.

“I feel like I represent Northside when I’m out there,” he said, “and I mean it.

“Because I treat patients like that, we’ve had a large influx of patients who’ve come because they’ve gotten to know me at the battalion level. I could not have done it without Northside and Steve Hudson.”

East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

 

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First responders, military, veterans invited to luncheon

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East Cobb public safety appreciation luncheon

Submitted information:

The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team is proud to host its 11th semi-annual First Responders & Military Appreciation Lunch on Wednesday, October 9th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This event, held twice a year, is dedicated to honoring our local heroes in Cobb County, including police officers, firefighters, EMTs, military personnel, and veterans.

Join us for a full-spread BBQ lunch featuring delicious pulled pork and pulled chicken, provided by PRIME Lending. Attendees can enjoy their meal on our spacious patio, network with fellow first responders, or take their food to go.

As well as many of our other wonderful sponsors will be supporting our heroes. Arrows Exterminators will provide beverages, First American Home Warranty will provide sweet treats, All Atlanta Ameri Spec and Perrie & Associates will be giving away fun swag items as a gift to those who tirelessly serve the Marietta community.

This heartfelt event is free for all first responders from Cobb County and the surrounding areas, including police, fire, detective units, and active/retired military personnel. We look forward to celebrating and expressing our gratitude to those who serve our community with dedication and bravery.

For more information on community events at the Janice Overbeck Team office, visit www.JaniceOverbeck.com/events and RSVP on our Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JaniceOverbeckRealEstateTeam/.

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Cobb Chamber’s Honorary Commanders seeking 2025 nominees

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Submitted information:Cobb Chamber annual golf tournament

The Honorary Commanders Association, a cooperative effort involving the Cobb Chamber, Dobbins Air Reserve Base (ARB), General Lucius D. Clay National Guard Center, Georgia National Guard, Coast Guard, National Defense Force, and the Navy and Marine Corps, is seeking nominations for members of its 2025 class.

The Honorary Commanders Association annually selects community and business leaders and pairs them with military personnel in a yearlong program designed to give leaders an opportunity to learn about military activities, their impact on the economy and the various aspects of the national defense system.

Created by the Cobb Chamber in 1983, the association has grown over the years to include units of our nation’s Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Georgia National Guard, Coast Guard and National Defense Force. Each program covers a branch of service and includes a behind-the-scenes tour of local and regional military assets.

The deadline for nominations is July 8. Fill out the nomination form at www.cobbchamber.org/hca. The Honorary Commanders Association is sponsored by Atlanta Marriott NW at Galleria, Capital City Bank, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and The Veterinary Clinic.

For more information about Honorary Commanders Association, contact Joel Blockton at 770-859-2348 or jblockton@cobbchamber.org.

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