“We have a higher percentage of services per veteran than any other Veterans Service Office in the state,” said Commissioner Pro Tem Mark Waller. “That’s a great testament to all of the work Carl McDaniel has put into his team.”
The Board of El Paso County Commissioners at its regular meeting Tuesday, July 24, recognized the retirement of El Paso County Veterans Service Officer Carl McDaniel with an official Proclamation, expressing thanks for his nine years with the Veterans Service Office.
McDaniel began his career with El Paso County in 2009, as Assistant Veterans Service Officer, to assist veterans and surviving spouses with completing disability claims. In 2015, he was appointed as the Veterans Service Officer.
“McDaniel’s expertise, dedication, experience and resourcefulness will be greatly missed by the Community Services Department and El Paso County,” said President Darryl Glenn.
Former El Paso County Veterans Service Officer Jim Tackett presented McDaniel with a Congressional Certificate of Recognition on behalf of Colorado Congressman Doug Lamborn.
Each year, the office provides assistance to veterans and families through 8,500 office visits. Those visits led to more than 2,500 claims for VA benefits, resulting in $31 million in annual benefits for El Paso County veterans and their families. McDaniel expanded the outreach of the office
McDaniel served on the Pikes Peak National Veterans Cemetery Committee and was involved in the planning process for the Pikes Peak National Cemetery now under construction in southern El Paso County.
“Our Veterans Service Office is one of the best in the country and that’s attributed to Carl and his staff,” said Tim Wolken, Director of Community Services.
In 2017, McDaniel led the creation of the annual Veteran of the Year Award presented to an outstanding El Paso County veteran. The Community Services Department named him as the 2010 Employee of the Year Award for outstanding service to the veteran community.
“I’d like to thank the commissioners for their support,” McDaniel said. “This county is incredibly supportive of its veterans and the work that we do.”
