Honoring our Veterans in Beaufort
Beaufort is a charming city not only known for its stunning waterfront views and rich history but also for the incredible veterans who call it home. One such remarkable veteran is Hank Zellman, a dedicated former Marine who has a fascinating journey to share.
A Journey Begins
In 1967, Hank Zellman, now 74, took the significant step of joining the United States Marine Corps in Philadelphia. Like many young men at the time, Hank felt the pull to serve his country and make a difference. After completing Boot Camp at the famous Parris Island, he headed to Montfort Point, North Carolina, to train as a disbursing clerk – a vital role ensuring that the financial operations ran smoothly for service members.
Serving in Vietnam
Hank’s service took him overseas to Vietnam, where he spent time in both Da Nang and Red Beach. It was a time filled with challenges, but Hank’s responsibilities as a disbursing clerk were critical in supporting his fellow Marines. After his tour in Vietnam, he returned to the Parris Island area for further training before transferring to the Marine Corps Finance Center in Kansas City, where he would work on financial management for the Marine Corps.
A Lifelong Career in Service
After separating from the Marine Corps in 1974 with the rank of Staff Sergeant, Hank’s commitment to service didn’t end. He transitioned to working at the Navy Finance Center in Cleveland and eventually became a part of the newly formed Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). Over the span of 25 years with DFAS, Hank rose through the ranks to become the Director of Retired Pay for all Department of Defense services. His expertise ensured that veterans received the benefits they earned through their service.
A New Chapter in Beaufort
In 2012, Hank moved to Beaufort County, where he has become an integral part of the community. His years of service and dedication to his country are qualities that inspire others around him. Community members often share stories of his warm spirit and willingness to lend a helping hand.
Recognizing More Heroes
Hank Zellman is not the only hero in Beaufort. The community is rich with veterans who have served the nation with honor. To continue celebrating these individuals, there’s an opportunity to nominate veterans for the Veteran of the Week recognition. If you know a veteran who deserves acknowledgment, you can reach out to Jechubb1@gmail.com to submit a nomination.
Supporting Veterans’ Housing
Another significant aspect of veteran support in the area is the VA-Guaranteed Home Loan program, established under the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944. This program provides housing assistance to veterans, enabling them to secure homes and integrate back into civilian life. The VA’s housing assistance program is a great resource, especially for those transitioning after years of dedicated service. For more information on these benefits, veterans are encouraged to visit the official VA housing assistance webpage.
The Spirit of Beaufort
The stories of veterans like Hank Zellman highlight the bravery and commitment that define the spirit of Beaufort. In a world that is constantly changing, these heroes remind us of the sacrifices made for our freedoms. They inspire the younger generations to recognize the importance of serving one’s country and community. If you see a veteran, take a moment to say thank you. After all, it’s our combined efforts that keep the spirit of service alive in our beautiful city.
