A recognition received Friday by the city of Poplar Bluff honored how the community comes together every day to serve veterans, according to officials.
Poplar Bluff has become the second city in the state to earn the title Veteran Friendly Community from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The designation was presented during a ceremony at the Black River Coliseum by Jim Wartski, executive director of community engagement for the VA central office in Washington D.C.
Wartski thanked the community and sponsors of the effort for their hard work, including John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
It is an effort that can make lasting change in the lives of veterans and their families, he said.
"The best, most tangible and most important work caring for veterans happens right here, at the local level," Wartski told those that gathered for the event. "And the VA realizes we cannot do it alone. We openly thank you for all of the work this community is doing taking care of our veterans."
Wartski said he hopes the momentum continues.
The designation recognizes Poplar Bluff's efforts to create a framework of support for veterans, according to a certificate presented during the ceremony.
Key metrics that make Poplar Bluff a good community for veterans to live and work were considered as part of the process. These include economic factors, transportation, education, mental health services and business promotions that benefit veterans.
The community comes together every day to provide support to veterans, said Dr. Patricia Hall, director of the Poplar Bluff VA.
For Poplar Bluff to step up like this, means the community has taken on a great responsibility, said John Fuller, co-chair of the Southern Missouri Community Veterans Engagement Board. The board was organized as part of the effort to secure this designation.
Signs recognizing Poplar Bluff as a Veteran Friendly Community will be placed at the city limits, said city council member Ed DeGaris, who has participated in the effort.
"I couldn't be any more proud of what the folks in our town have done," he said, adding the community has stepped forward to show love and compassion to veterans.