Vietnam vet who runs local veterans program honored as volunteer of the year

Jeerry Vermette with his wife and daughter during a ceremony at the State House last month (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Jerry Vermette, who runs the "Veterans Time" program for Rochester Rec, has been honored as Volunteer of the Year for Stafford County by the New Hampshire State Commission on Aging.

The prestigious award was presented to Vermette at a ceremony held at the State House in Concord on May 20. His wife, daughter, and Governor Chris Sununu were in attendance.

Vermette, an Army veteran who saw combat in Vietnam, has been running the Veterans Time group at the Senior Activity Center for nearly two years. The group provides a welcoming space for veterans to sit, chat, enjoy snacks, and discuss various issues concerning local veterans.

One of Vermette's primary concerns is ensuring that veterans receive the benefits they have earned through their military service. Veterans Time offers encouragement, fellowship, and a unique opportunity for veterans to reminisce about experiences only they can fully understand and appreciate.

According to staff at the Rec, Vermette's welcoming nature and willingness to assist with various needs have earned him the respect and appreciation of local veterans. His dedication to reaching out to veterans in the Rochester area has significantly impacted the community.

Veterans' Time is a free, drop-in program open to veterans of any age. The group meets at the Rochester Senior Activity Center, located at 150 Wakefield St, Suite 10, every Tuesday from 9 a.m.-noon. For more information about Veterans' Time, visit Rec.RochesterNH.gov or contact Senior Services Coordinator Steve Scott at (603) 332-4120.