A good public servant is one who’s experienced what she does and Debbie O’Neal is the epitome of that in her role of serving military veterans in the area. And it’s her service that has earned her the distinction of being at the top of her field.

“I joined the Georgia Department of Veteran Services in 2011 and I’m the Office Manager and District Manager,” O’Neal said. “The award that I’ve just received the Employee of the Year and it’s special because it’s the first Employee of the Year Award presented. I am honored to be selected.”

O’Neal said the award was based on work she does in the office, but also for her outreach into the community.

“I’ve organized a Woman’s Veterans’ recognition, and tried to plan a Veteran’s Day Parade in Vidalia,” she said with because weather has consistently caused cancellations of that event. “I’m also organized special ceremonies to honor Vietnam veterans and am currently planning for another women’s recognition.”

O’Neal served in the Armed Forces in the United States Navy so she not only has the knowledge to help her fellow veterans, she has the compassion and desire.

“When I took this job, I knew what our veterans go through – especially women like me,” she said. “But I also know what veterans of other wars and conflicts have had to endure and my desire it to help them to the best of my ability.”

If you’re a veteran or a family member of a veteran and you need assistance, O’Neal says she’s always available to help.

“I can be reached by appointment Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.,” O’Neal said. “We now make appointments because of COVID and if anyone needs to make an appointment they can reach me at my office at 912-526-8860.”