Women Honored with Veteran of the Month and Veteran Supporter of the Month Awards

By Chuck N. Baker

(Las Vegas) Nevada women are not shy when it comes to helping veterans in the Silver State. That spirit of service and devotion to the men and women who have worn the uniform of America’s military was on display in December when two dedicated women were recently honored in a ceremony hosted by the Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) in Las Vegas.

Donna Kay Lee and Chere’ Pedersen were recognized for their service and support of Nevada’s veterans during a ceremony at the Grant Sawyer Building. Lee was named Veteran of the Month and Pedersen was named Veteran Supporter of the Month.

Fred Wagar, Deputy Director of Programs and Services for NDVS, opened the ceremony by noting the two designations provide the opportunity to recognize the volunteer work on behalf veterans. The program is part of Governor Brian Sandoval’s commitment to make Nevada the friendliest state in the nation for veterans and military members.

Before introducing Lee, Wagar asked her nominator to explain his nomination. Mike Blanchard, a veterans’ mentor in the specialty court for veterans, said when he first met Lee at the Las Vegas Veterans Treatment Court he was amazed at the amount of volunteer work she does. Lee is a 20-year U.S. Navy veteran. She volunteers in courtrooms in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas and guides individuals to resources including housing, employment and health care. She is also involved helping police officers who are veterans and assists military personnel who are transitioning into civilian life. Blanchard notes that barely scratches the surface of her involvement in the veterans’ community. When NDVS Director Kat Miller initially asked someone to explain Lee’s work, the reply was, “How much time do you have?”

Lee said the court’s volunteers all work together “filling the gap” to help others. When asked later about her motivation she explained that sometimes veterans return home “forever changed” and she stands ready to ease the transition between military and civilian life.

Wagar described Pedersen’s work by noting she has been “super busy.” A past President of the local Blue Star Mothers and current President of Nevada’s American War Mothers, Pedersen serves on numerous boards and advisory committees. She is also involved in a unique activity. She locates and delivers donated furniture to needy veterans.

Nominator Richard Keirn said, “I can’t think of anybody better than Chere’ to be Veteran Supporter of the Month. Wherever I go, she’s there.” Pedersen explained when it comes to helping others, “If I can’t help them, I look around for someone who can. There is so much that we can do. I’m here to serve.” She took a moment to thank her husband for his support joking, “Because he never knows where I am.” Her husband, known as Chef Flemming at his Henderson bakery, proudly assists his wife in her work. It was also humorously noted that while he is not a veteran, he too serves in uniform — a traditional all white chef’s outfit.