Ray Scow of Reno and Barbara Dreyer of Las Vegas have been named as April’s Veteran of the Month and Veteran Supporter for the Month, according to the Nevada Department of Veterans Services. “It’s a pleasure to recognize and share the stories each month of these outstanding individuals that support our heroes,” said Gov. Steve Sisolak. “You can’t help but be inspired by their selfless service that has enhanced the lives of so many veterans and benefited communities in both Northern and Southern Nevada.”
Scow is an Army veteran who has been active and supportive member of the veteran community in Northern Nevada. A member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 989 since 2015, Scow has served as the chapter’s parade coordinator. The chapter participates in five to six parades a year. In support of this, he personalized his harvester and trailer to become the chapter’s “signature” at events throughout Northern Nevada symbolizing that VVA 989 is present and supportive of the event.
NDVS photo Barbara Dreyer of Las Vegas is April’s Veteran Supporter of the Month.
Scow is also the chapter’s homeless prevention coordinator and leads the chapter’s efforts in supporting the Homeless Veterans Stand-down in Reno by cooking hot meals for veterans in need. With Scow’s help, during the pandemic the chapter handed out 1,500 baggies containing prewrapped snacks so homeless veterans would have something to eat that day.
As a member of Disabled American Veterans, Post 1, he is an avid fundraiser in support of Honor Flight Nevada where he is often the top ticket seller for the post’s raffle. For those who know Scow, he can often be found volunteering at one event or another or can be found preparing for the larger events in the community.
Dreyer is an active supporter of the veteran community in Southern Nevada. As an author and small business owner of “Barbies Goodies Vegas,” she has made it a point to contribute portions of her sales to numerous veteran support initiatives. Separate from her business, she has donated many hours to helping veterans and their families.
She also allots time to making food for homeless and challenged veterans.
“It’s so heartwarming to see this level of involvement, care and concern from these volunteers, even during a pandemic,” said NDVS Director Kat Miller. “Both Mr. Scow and Ms. Dreyer represent the good that can be accomplished when one decides to make a difference.”
The VOM is awarded to veterans across Nevada who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, specifically with respect to volunteer work in support of veterans and the military. The VSM award recognizes both organizations and nonveteran Nevada community members who support military members stationed in Nevada, Nevada veterans, and their families. Both programs recognize individuals and organizations that help military members, veterans, and their families.
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NDVS photo