Deputy Director Willette Gerald presents the October Veterans of the Month award to Carol Watson.
Carol Watson
Carol Watson was recognized as Nevada’s Veteran of the Month for October 2013 during a presentation in Las Vegas.
“Carol’s contributions to the community through her numerous volunteer efforts is not only a blessing to veterans, but an inspiration,” said Deputy Director Willette Gerald.
A former United States Marine, Watson’s contributions since leaving after three years of service includes a long list of volunteer efforts. Since 2004 she continues to serve as a volunteer at the Women’s Health Center in Las Vegas and has attended monthly meetings since 2006 to assist in shaping the WHC projects. An active member of the Women Marine Association (WMA), Watson has served as president of the local Las Vegas chapter, news editor for its newsletter as well as serving as an Area Director for three years covering four western states.
“Carol has done more than answer the call to volunteer when asked,” says Gerald. “She seeks out opportunities to serve veterans and her community.”
While active in the local community, Watson has also been involved in national efforts. She actively promotes registration for the Women in Military Service Association which is the only memorial in Washington D.C. for women veterans. She has also received the Congressional Award from the House of Representatives for service to her country and volunteerism to the VA in 2006.
“On behalf of Gov. Brian Sandoval, we want to thank Carol and recognize her efforts to continue to assist veterans in Nevada,” said Gerald. “There’s so much to be done for veterans and Carol has shown how one person can take up the mantel of volunteerism and have a great impact.”
The Veteran of the Month program is managed by the Nevada Department of Veterans Services under the direction of Director Katherine Miller.
Joseph E. Floyd
Air Force Airman Joseph E. Floyd graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio.
The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills.
Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Floyd is the son of Dondaline Kowalski of Fallon.
He is a 2011 graduate of Churchill County High School.
John Cesar S. Garganera
Army National Guard Spec. John Cesar S. Garganera has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga.
During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, Army history, core values and traditions. Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman.
Garganera is the son of Erlinda Abercrombie and stepson of Bruce Abercrombie of Fallon. He is the former ward of Linely Ripley of Fife, Wash.
He is a 2003 graduate of Churchill County High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in 2012 from DeVry University.