Governor Josh Stein visited Pitt County on Veterans Day, joining North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Secretary Jocelyn Mallette, Greenville Mayor PJ Connelly, and local veterans to mark the occasion. During the event, Governor Stein recognized the contributions of veterans and restated his administration’s support for those who have served.
“Veterans sacrificed so much to protect us. We owe them not just gratitude but care and support when they come home,” said Governor Josh Stein. “On this Veterans Day, let us remember their sacrifices and recommit ourselves to serving the more than 600,000 veterans who call North Carolina home.”
Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette, Secretary of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, emphasized ongoing efforts for military families. “Our Department is working to ensure that North Carolina is a top state for military families, and our unwavering support for them does not stop when they complete their service,” she said. “Our veterans have selflessly put our lives before theirs, and we must ensure their sacrifices are honored by giving them the tools and resources for their next mission in life.”
Recently, Governor Stein announced new measures to improve access to care for veterans. These include extended hours for NCServes—a resource network—and the launch of AskMeNC, both designed to expand support services available to veterans and their families across North Carolina.
In addition, last month saw a $500,000 investment from the GE Aerospace Foundation into North Carolina’s Heroes MAKE America Program. This initiative partners with companies in advanced manufacturing to help equip veterans with skills needed as they transition into civilian careers.
The state continues its commitment through several ongoing initiatives:
– The Resource Guide 2024/2025 compiles information about organizations serving military families.
– Employment preference is provided in state government jobs for eligible veterans and National Guard members.
– Senate Bill 118 streamlines school enrollment and license renewal processes for military families.
– House Bill 373 offers tuition discounts at University of North Carolina campuses for certain military students.
– The NCWorks Veterans Services program employs professionals—many themselves veterans—to help connect others with job training opportunities throughout North Carolina.
