The Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) recently marked 80 years of service to the state’s veterans. Since 1945, ADVA has supported Alabama’s men and women in uniform, helping them access earned benefits while adapting its programs to meet evolving needs. Under Governor Kay Ivey and with legislative support, ADVA assists veterans in navigating federal VA systems and provides Alabama-specific services, including Veterans Service Offices, the G.I. Dependent Scholarship Program, State Veterans Homes and the State Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
- Veterans Service Offices (VSOs): With 62 offices statewide, VSOs provide free help filing claims for disability compensation, pensions, education, healthcare, survivor benefits and other programs. In FY 2023, Alabama veterans received more than $5.8 billion in federal benefits.
- G.I. Dependent Scholarship Program: Offers tuition, textbooks and fees for dependents of eligible disabled veterans at Alabama colleges, universities and technical schools.
- State Veterans Homes: Five state-run facilities provide skilled nursing and assisted living for $24 per day, offering 24/7 care, therapy, social activities and transportation.
- State Veterans Memorial Cemetery: Located in Spanish Fort, the 120-acre cemetery provides free, dignified interment for eligible veterans, including National Guard and Reserve members.
ADVA remains committed to honoring veterans year-round. Learn more at va.alabama.gov.
Veterans Home Recovery
Restoration of the Command Sgt. Maj. Bennie G. Adkins State Veterans Home, damaged by a fire in April 2025, is expected to take 12–14 months. Repairs include demolition, reconstruction and replacement of irreparably damaged infrastructure, equipment and furnishings. Displaced residents are currently receiving care at Enterprise Health and Rehabilitation Center. Commissioner Jeff Newton said, “Our top priority remains their health and well-being, and we are committed to restoring their home with the care and dignity they deserve.”
Technology at the Cemetery
The Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery Director, Joe Buschell, recently introduced a fleet of KRESS robotic mowers to provide an efficient and respectful method of maintaining the cemetery. The robotic mowers operate quietly, protect headstones and allow staff to focus on landscaping, maintenance and supporting families, ensuring the cemetery remains dignified year-round.
New State Veterans Cemetery in Huntsville
ADVA is developing a second state veterans cemetery in north Alabama to serve thousands currently without nearby access. According to the FY2021 National Cemetery Administration budget, more than 42,700 Alabama veterans are currently unserved. Plans include securing approximately 110 acres of farmland in Madison, Morgan and Limestone counties, offering a peaceful, dignified final resting place.
Expanding Outreach Efforts
In September, ADVA hosted 175 partners for Operation We Remember, a suicide prevention initiative honoring veterans through flag displays. The Office of Outreach also launched a monthly podcast, Coffee with the Commissioner, providing updates on programs, initiatives and veterans’ issues via YouTube and social media.
SIDEBAR: Available Support and Resources:
- VETERANS RESOURCE CENTER: Offers career counseling, resume assistance and interview preparation to help veterans navigate the job market. GI BILL BENEFITS: Provides financial support for education and training, helping veterans gain new skills and credentials for civilian careers.
- VA HEALTHCARE SERVICES: Veterans have access to comprehensive medical care, mental health services and specialized programs to address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other service-related issues.
- VA VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND EMPLOYMENT (VR&E): Assists veterans with service-connected disabilities in finding employment and adapting to civilian work environments.
- VETERAN HOUSING ASSISTANCE: The VA offers programs for veterans struggling with homelessness or housing instability that provide affordable housing and assist with home loans.
Veterans can also find additional resources through SBA Services, Vets for Hope, the ADVA Website, 211 Connects Alabama, etc.
AWARD WINNERS:
Brian Foshee, Covington County Veterans Service Officer
Award: Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner’s Excellence Award
Brian Foshee honored with Commissioner’s Excellence Award
Master Gunnery Sergeant (Ret.) Brian Foshee of Andalusia, Alabama, has been named a recipient of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner’s Excellence Award, which honors individuals demonstrating exceptional dedication and service to Alabama’s veterans.
Foshee served 30 distinguished years in the United States Marine Corps, holding leadership roles such as Senior Drill Instructor, Battalion Drill Master and Chief Marine Corps Drill Instructor for the Naval Officer Candidate School Program. His career took him around the world, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Among his personal decorations are the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal.
Since 2015, Foshee has continued his commitment to service as the Covington County Veterans Service Officer, assisting veterans and their families in accessing the benefits they’ve earned. Reflecting on his work, Foshee says, “It means that we are helping others to the maximum extent that we can provide from the chair that we sit in.”
Foshee attributes his dedication to giving back to the community that supported his family during his military service. “I am now fulfilling my ‘payback’ for all those letters and care packages sent to me while forward deployed,” he says.
With humility and steadfast commitment, Foshee continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Alabama’s veterans, embodying the values of service, honor and community that have defined his life.
Davy Daughtry, Houston County Veterans Service Officer
Award: The Greatest of All-Time – In Service to Fellow Veterans
Davy Daughtry was awarded “The Greatest of All-Time – In Service to Fellow Veterans”
With nearly 50 years of combined military and veterans’ service, Davy Daughtry has dedicated his life to supporting those who’ve worn the uniform. Retired from the U.S. Navy with 30 years of service, Daughtry has spent the last 19 years as a Veterans Service Officer for the State of Alabama—continuing his mission to serve others long after retirement.
“The Greatest of All-Time – In Service to Fellow Veterans” award is presented to individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment, exceptional leadership and heartfelt support for fellow veterans. Recipients go above and beyond—lifting others, offering guidance and standing shoulder to shoulder with those who have served. Compassion, strength and selfless service define what it means to earn this honor—and Daughtry exemplifies it all.
For Daughtry, the work is about connection. “A lot of times, veterans just need somebody to talk to and be able to explain what’s going on,” he said. “If someone calls in, we don’t send them to a recorded message. I believe we should be here to answer the phone.” His approachable style and willingness to listen have made his office a trusted place for countless veterans seeking guidance and understanding.
One story that stands out to him involved a hospitalized veteran in urgent need of home equipment and care. “We didn’t have the assets, so I got with Coffee County and Dale County VSOs, and we worked together to get the veteran what he needed,” he recalled. “He was extremely happy—and it’s things like that all the time. If I can help, I’m gonna help.”
Humbled by the recognition, Daughtry says he doesn’t think of himself as “The Greatest of All-Time.” Instead, he views his role simply: “We just try our best to help veterans and their families. As simple as that.”
Paulette Risher, Major General, U.S. Army (Ret.)
Award: The Lt. Col. Robert M. Horton Jr. Memorial Service Award
Major General (Ret.) Paulette Risher honored with the Lt. Col. Robert M. Horton Jr. Memorial Service Award
Major General (Ret.) Paulette Risher has dedicated her life to service—first through nearly 34 years of active and reserve duty in the U.S. Army, and later through her work supporting veterans across Alabama. After retiring from the military in 2006, she joined the defense industry before leading Still Serving Veterans (SSV), a Huntsville-based nonprofit helping veterans and their families with employment, benefits and crisis support.
“For me, this willingness to serve is deeply tied to my faith,” Risher shared. “The Lord has been good to me and has enabled me to continue to contribute.”
The Lt. Col. Robert M. Horton Jr. Memorial Service Award honors individuals who make a lasting impact on service members, veterans and their families—an honor Risher holds especially dear. “Bob Horton was one of my favorite people—both personally and professionally,” she said. “He had the gift of bringing together people with diverse interests to genuinely serve veterans and their families.”
Risher’s most notable initiative is Alabama’s Challenge to Prevent Veteran Suicide, which she co-chairs with ADVA Deputy Commissioner Sandra Lucas. What began as a legislative task force has grown into a nationally recognized model now advising other states.
“I believe Alabamians truly want to support our veterans,” she said. “Beyond programs and services, it’s about ensuring every veteran feels seen, appreciated and connected.”
Risher’s leadership, compassion and commitment reflect the true spirit of the Lt. Col. Robert M. Horton Jr. Memorial Service Award.
Tammy Doerer, Director of Tourism, City of Enterprise
Award: Volunteer Contribution Award
Tammy Doerer honored with Volunteer Contribution Award
Tammy Doerer, Director of Tourism for the City of Enterprise, has received the Volunteer Contribution Award in recognition of her impactful service to veterans, service members and their families.
“Volunteerism has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.”
A military spouse whose husband served 30 years in the U.S. Army and continues as an Army civilian, Doerer’s commitment to supporting the military community is deeply personal. Through her role with the City, she partners with local Veteran Service Organizations, Fort Rucker, volunteers and businesses to connect service members and veterans with essential resources while fostering strong bonds between the military and the broader community.
“I’m honored to play even a small part in helping foster those connections that make our community and our commitment to those who serve so strong,” Doerer says. Among her most meaningful efforts is the Veterans Appreciation Community Luncheon, an annual event that brings together veterans, active-duty soldiers, city leaders and citizens to celebrate Veterans Day and honor local Service Member and Veteran of the Year. The luncheon also includes residents of the Bennie Adkins State Veterans Home, bridging generations of service and creating enduring connections.
For Doerer, this recognition highlights the collective effort of Enterprise volunteers. “Receiving this recognition is deeply humbling because it shines a light on the incredible groups and individuals who give so selflessly,” she said.
