The 220-plus member Reynolds Veterans Association Inc. was recognized recently by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for their work with the Active Duty Rehab Unit at the Uptown Campus of the Augusta Veterans Administration Hospital.

Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Lt. James Peake, U.S. Army (Ret), praised the work the local veterans have done on behalf of the injured active duty solders undergoing treatment a the Augusta facility.

Accompanied by U.S Sen. Johnny Isakson, Peake conducted a press conference after touring the Augusta site as well as the Eisenhower Hospital at Ft. Gordon.

“The need for our VA system to aid in the mending and healing of our active duty soldiers is a new role for the veterans hospitals. This has traditionally been done by active duty facilities. The Augusta VA has done a remarkable job with this over the past 3 years” said Peake.

Representing the Reynolds Veterans Association were founder, Capt. Larry Hone USN (Ret.) and current president, Col. Augie Hocevar USA (Ret).

“The Reynolds Veterans Association represents everything good in our society,” said the Secretary. “To provide our active duty injured troops the magnificent handicap accessible bus and the other amazing rehab equipment is just without precedent.”

Isakson was quick to tell the Secretary, “I am not surprised that the veterans from Reynolds, without being asked, jumped on the opportunity to assist these young men and women in their healing process. Georgia has a long tradition of having military posts and air force bases and we cherish having the sites and the servicemen and women live in Georgia. We are also very sensitive to the sacrifices they have made and all Georgian’s want to help.”

The Reynolds Veterans Association is holding its third annual golf fundraiser to continue to benefit the Augusta VA in early November. Anyone wishing to learn more of the mission or contribute should contact Col. Hocevar at 706 467-9554.