That’s a word that has a special meaning for the Shelby County Veterans Services Office (SCVSO). Every day of the year, the SCVSO honors our veterans by providing “service to those who served us.”  We aim to provide compassionate, efficient, and prompt assistance in helping veterans get VA benefits, which helps to provide financial stability for veterans and their families. Veterans, Day, however, is set aside for us to show our appreciation on a wider scale.  Every November, we honor veterans  with a series of special events, and this year was no different.    

On Veterans Day, Shelby County Government and the City of Memphis sponsored the 19th Annual Military Appreciation Luncheon at the University of Memphis Ballroom.  The 400+ guests were welcomed by Mayors Harris and Strickland and enjoyed a rousing keynote address by Force Master Chief Chris Detje. Veterans got an opportunity to express their pride during the “Service Branch” recognition portion of the program, and recognized the ultimate service of those who gave their lives, during the rendition of TAPS.  

In addition, for SCG employees who served in the military, we hosted the 4th Annual Shelby County Government Employee Military Appreciation Breakfast. Guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast of chicken and waffles at Mahogany Restaurant as they listened to an inspiring message from Mayor Harris. Each veteran received a gift from the county as a token of our appreciation for their service to our country and our county. 

Veterans Services Officer Mike Ellis was honored to deliver the keynote address for the Veterans Appreciation Event on the campus of Southwest Tennessee Community College, sponsored by the Veterans and Military Student Services at the University of Memphis. University President Dr. David Rudd was the guest speaker.  

This year, we awarded the inaugural SCG Employee Military Veteran of the Year Award.  The winner, Johnny Toy, received the award for exemplary service to the Shelby County Community in the following areas: civic and community services, business or professional service accomplishments, charitable or religious service, and education or school service. Mr. Toy received a beautiful award, and the use of a Fedex Forum box suite at a Grizzlies Game.