JACKSON – Northampton County Director of Veteran’s Affairs Chuck Youse was recognized as employee of the quarter here Tuesday during a meeting of the County Commissioners.

Chairwoman Virginia Spruill proudly presented the retired Army veteran with a plaque of recognition for his efforts in the planning and organization of an all expense paid trip for World War II Veterans to attend a WWII Memorial dedication in Washington D.C. in May.

Under Youse’s direction, the Veterans Department arranged transportation, food and hotel accommodations for all attending vets, making Northampton County the only county in the state of North Carolina to organize a trip of this kind.

As Spruill presented the plaque she stated, &uot;Many World War II veterans would likely not have had the opportunity to attend the event without the trip being paid for and coordinated by this Department Head.

She continued, &uot;Mr. Youse has provided energy, initiative, commitment, dedication and sensitivity to the services provided through his office to veterans and their dependents and has improved the reputation of government as well as the image as one of caring and support for our veterans.&uot;

On May 28, Youse accompanied a group of 49 WWII vets to the nation’s Capitol for the dedication service.

&uot;This award belongs to the county,&uot; said Youse as he received the plaque. &uot;This was truly a county-wide effort and without the backing of the County Manager, Department Heads and employees of Northampton it would not have been possible.

&uot;When I had the vision to do this and presented it to those around me, it was only a matter of time before they grabbed hold of it and ran. If there’s one thing I have learned, being in this area, it is that when there is a need, the people of this community bind together to make it a reality. This is the result of incredible community support and cooperation,&uot; he said graciously.

&uot;I assure you that there are 49 WWII vets that are very thankful for the opportunity given to them and I accept this on their behalf.&uot;

At last count, approximately1,056 of the 4.4 million remaining WWII veterans die each day.