By Lasca Randels
InkFreeNews

WARSAW — Darryl McDowell of Warsaw has been selected as the new Kosciusko County Veteran Affairs Officer.

Darryl McDowell, InkFreeNews photo by Lasca Randels

The announcement was made during the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Sept. 28.

McDowell replaces Rich Maron, who held the position for the past 13 years.

When asked why he chose to apply for the position, McDowell said, “It’s the matter of giving back. It’s the matter of continuing the opportunity to serve the individuals that have contributed to my success and others, by honoring them in coming up with the benefits that they have earned but are not sure how to get, to assist them in getting back that which they are entitled to.”

McDowell, a fourth-generation Army veteran, officially takes over as veteran affairs officer Oct. 5 and begins training at that time.

He recalled his father having difficulty in obtaining benefits after being medically retired from the military and hopes to help other veterans eliminate some of that stress.

McDowell and his wife, Kathy, have two grown children. He has an associate’s degree in surveying technology, a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and is currently working on a master’s degree in project and operational management.

“I’m blessed to be able to do this and I’m glad to have the opportunity,” McDowell said.

The Veterans Services Office helps with:

• Claims for Service or non-service-connected disabilities
• Assistance with filing Aid and Attendance Claims
• Assistance dealing with VMAC Hospitals and Pharmacies
• Completing Annual VA Expense Reports
• Widow and Survivors Pensions
• Obtaining VA Home Loan Guarantee Certificates of Eligibility
• Advice on GI Bill Eligibility
• Remission of Fees for College

Information on Indiana Veterans Home, Burial Benefits, Obtaining Medals and Discharges and Vocational Rehabilitation

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the local office or the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs.