Vet to Vet Tennessee, 403 Tellico Street N, Madisonville, TN (2026)

06/07/2026

Monroe County-Based Veterans Court Expanding, Growing
Veterans Court Reaches into Bradley, McMinn County

On May 20, 2026, Monroe County Veterans Court reached an important milestone in its mission to serve veterans in the criminal justice system by expanding its unique recovery program into neighboring counties. “All grads are from outside the county,” Thomas said. “That means the program is working.”

Veterans Court was established by Vet to Vet Tennessee more than a decade ago. It has evolved from its founding in Monroe County and now operates in seven East Tennessee jurisdictions. “We are the hub, and we have many spokes,” Thomas said.

Last month, out of six graduates, four graduated from Bradley, while two were from McMinn County courts. McMinn County has participated in the Veterans Court since 2015, under the leadership of Judge R. Wylie Richardson.

Upon completion of the Monroe County Veterans Court program, Thomas recommends that neighboring judges expunge charges, enabling veterans to live healthier lives and pursue recovery rather than being sentenced.

To do that, justice-involved veterans are mentored by Vet to Vet Tennessee volunteers. Mentors and the JIV’s care provider(s) recommend JIVs to Thomas for graduation after they have worked to overcome behaviors that led to arrest. There is no set time limit. Vet to Vet Tennessee approaches each participant as an individual.

In addition to mentors, JIVs connect with McNabb Military Center and the Department of Veterans Affairs therapists when appropriate. McNabb Military Services Center has been a part of the program for over ten years and has provided free counseling to veterans and their families. Work on that front encourages JIVs to grow through challenges such as post-traumatic stress and chemical dependency.

May graduates were:

Stephen Holder, Navy, Bradley County, mentor Rob Myers

Jimmy Armstrong, Air Force, Bradley County, mentor Tyler Moore

Scott McMinn, Navy, McMinn County, mentor Bob Goguen,

Jacob Truck, Marine Corps, McMinn County, mentor Isaac Braun.

Howard Brock, Navy, Bradley County, mentor JD Phillips

Enis Disney, Navy, Bradley County, mentor Lee Bacon

Graduates were not only awarded judicial expungement; each also received a unique Vet to Vet Tennessee dog tag (made on a WWII dog tag machine by Andy Boyd, Monroe County VSO), a challenge coin, and a certificate recognizing their personal growth and commitment to recovery.

Graduates were also allowed to describe their experiences.

Stephen Holder said he would continue to connect with McNabb's therapist, Travis Miller, after Veterans Court concluded; Miller’s veteran-specific services are a great benefit to rehabilitation.

“When I got into trouble and went down a dark path, I lost both my parents,” JIV Scott McMinn said. “I joined the program, and it helped tremendously. Travis brought out things I didn’t want to talk to anyone about.”

Howard Brock said Veterans Court “got things moving in the right direction,” and the brotherhood he experienced through Vet to Vet Tennessee mentorship reminded him of his military days, a sense of camaraderie missing from civilian life.

Enis Disney’s wife thanked the court for helping her husband. “He’s a changed man,” she said. “Travis did so much for me, taught me how to deal with and cope with problems,” Enis said. With support at home, Travis and Lee, it’s just amazing.”

“I think you all rescued me,” he said. “I think you rescued yourself,” Thomas said.

Usually humble in his role overseeing the court, Thomas reminded JIVs of who was responsible for their successes and failures. The hard personal work required to change the course of life falls squarely on JIVs' shoulders. Mentors guide them on the path, hold them accountable, offer encouragement, and share similar experiences and personal success stories.

And there is a large group of unseen supporters who cheer for veterans and keep the court running.

Thomas recognized Monroe County Mayor Mitch Ingram and Veterans Service Officer Andy Boyd - “one of the best VSOs in Tennessee.” He thanked the Monroe County Board of Commissioners for its unwavering support, therapist Travis Miller - “the man on the ground,” and the family members of JIVS - “it’s not a solo trip” - who choose to help and give effort and care to the people they love.

“And the mentors,” Judge Thomas said, “the program doesn’t work without you.”

05/26/2026

Vet to Vet Tennessee recognizes the Monroe County Maintenance Department

In 2018, Vet to Vet TN held an Operation Military Masterpiece art contest to design banners for the Monroe County Robert “Bob” Hatley Veterans Center. The artists were both from Madisonville, and the building has looked welcoming to veterans and their families ever since. Everyone who took part in the unveiling was recognized during the ceremony, except for the men who installed the banners.

Eight years later, the banners had to be replaced. Once again, the men from the maintenance department were called upon, including Maintenance Director Mark Woods, Tim Strandridge, Andy Standridge, and Matthew Harrill.

For months, they were developing a framing system for the banners that would not only enhance their appearance but also protect them from the elements. All of that creativity was being put into their own time!

In April, the sixth banner was installed, and they all look great thanks to Mark, Tim, Andy, and Matthew. On May 13, 2026, joined by Monroe County's Mitch Ingram, Vet to Vet Tennessee recognized the men for their service and support. God bless the men of the Monroe County Maintenance Department.

Each of the volunteers said it was out of respect for the American Military & families, and they were proud and honored to support American Warriors. God bless America.

Thank you.

05/25/2026

2026 Gun Raffle Winner.

The 2026 Vet to Vet Tennessee’s Gun Raffle was selected at noon on May 22, 2026, at the Bob Hatley Veterans Services Center.

The board of directors and other VTVT members attended to witness the drawing of our first online raffle. VTVT received approval for the Annual Charitable Gaming Event in February 2026 and used the Rally Up app to manage the campaign. Approximately 50% of tickets were purchased online, and 50% were purchased at the ticket office.

Rally Up: selected the winner online: CB Stakely, an Army Vietnam veteran from Madisonville, Tennessee.

We thank the hundreds of donors for their support, especially Don Davis and Scott Drapo, who donated three of the rifles. Thank you, Johnny McKinley (chair), Bob McAndrew (co-chair), and Amy McAndrew, for all their work on the Raffle Committee.

The Tennessee Department of State permits only one raffle per year. If you have suggestions for our 2027 raffle, we welcome them. Please get in touch with us at 865-336-2624 or email us at [email protected]. We appreciate your support.

We are grateful for your generosity.

God bless America's fallen heroes.

04/30/2026

Veterans Advocates Accept Vet to Vet Tennessee Memorial Awards

Founded in 2011, Vet to Vet Tennessee operates veteran and military-friendly congregations in 26 states and facilitates numerous programs throughout East Tennessee.

The all-volunteer group pursues a broad mission to improve the lives of veterans, with goals to prevent veteran su***de, homelessness, and incarceration.

Earlier this month, three Vet to Vet Tennessee volunteers, along with a partner organization, were recognized and awarded for significant contributions to veterans and their families.

A Joseph “JL” Tucker Memorial Award was presented to Don Davis.
Bob Gougen received a Georgie P. Thomas Memorial Award.
And Johnny McKinley and McNabb Military Services Center were each bestowed the Freddie J. Owens Memorial Award, Vet to Vet Tennessee’s highest annual award.

Awards are named and dedicated in honor and memory of Vet to Vet Tennessee icons and founding members who have passed away.

Virtus Fides Honor - Joseph “JL” Tucker Memorial
Don Davis, left, accepts a Joseph “JL” Tucker Memorial Award, a distinction previously bestowed on Monroe County Veterans Service Officer Andy Boyd and VTVT Awards Chair Rob Myers.

Virtus Fides Honor is a Latin phrase meaning “courage in difficulties,” “virtue in hardship,” or “strength in adversity,” signifying a person of meritorious character whose excellence and quiet determination radiate strength and reliability in challenging times.

Joseph Lee “JL” Tucker was a First Cavalry Army Vietnam War veteran who volunteered to help wounded and fallen soldiers off helicopters during the Ia Drang Massacre. After the war, Tucker chose to rescue homeless veterans, contributing time, money, and compassion despite personal physical and health challenges. The night before he lost consciousness, Tucker was seen on his knees praying for a homeless veteran.

Through his work and dedicated service to his veteran brothers and sisters, Don Davis embodies the resolute spirit of JL Tucker.

Pro Deo, Pro Patria - George P. Thomas Memorial

George P. Thomas Memorial Award recipient Bob Gougen, accepts the award from previous recipient County Mayor Mitch Ingram, a staunch supporter of Vet to Vet Tennessee and Monroe County Veterans Court. The Monroe County BUZZ was also an early recipient of the George P. Thomas Memorial.

Pro Deo, Pro Patria means “For God and country,” a Latin phrase signifying devotion and divine principles amid national duty.
George Palmer Thomas inspired the group as it formed, suggesting each meeting begin with a prayer, a standard upheld today that greatly improved Vet to Vet Tennessee’s approach to advocacy and veteran support. Though Thomas fought Agent Orange-related lung cancer, he continued to attend weekly meetings with Vet to Vet Tennessee and worked to advance peer support services.
Bob Gougen serves as Vet to Vet Tennessee’s chaplain, and he mentors justice-involved veterans in Veterans Court, continuing the legacy of George P. Thomas. “I pray God sees something in me that I don’t see in myself,” Gougen said. “Thank you for seeing something good in me.”

Amito et Fide - Freddie J. Owens Memorial

“By courage and faith” is best known as the historic motto of the US Army First Cavalry Regiment Unit Crest, a symbol of unyielding dedication to duty.

Freddie J. Owens exemplified Christ-like selflessness in life and death. During the Vietnam War, Owens was a man of bravery, gallantry, and heroism at the Battle of Ia Drang Valley. Wounded and his unit overrun, Owens pursued the enemy and defended his men.

He was a special human who did not seek notoriety, recognition, or self-promotion but instead maintained profound kindness and love for people in need. He developed cancer from Agent Orange, endured chemotherapy, and poured his heart into efforts to bring fairness, justice, and honor to women in uniform. He believed female veterans were owed recognition for surrendering civilian life, and the treatment of women veterans fell below even the bar of disrespect shown to Vietnam vets when they returned home to American soil.

Johnny McKinley is a former justice-involved veteran and graduate of Monroe County Veterans Court. He was kicked out of VA rehab, his self-worth depleted, and after eight tries in rehab, he found new meaning with Vet to Vet Tennessee and now mentors other justice-involved veterans, teaching recovery and accountability rather than punishment.

The McNabb Military Service Center also received a Freddie J. Owens Memorial Award for treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorder, and for improving mental health among Veterans Court participants.

McKinley and McNabb’s mental health advocates are living examples of humility and self-sacrifice that echo Owens’ example. Jessica Carlton, Assistant Director of Homeless & Recovery Services; Jennifer Phillips, Senior Director of Adult Outpatient Mental Health and Recovery Services; and Travis Miller, a Military Services Center therapist, are honored to accept the award on behalf of McNabb after years of service.

The awards ceremony was held at the Monroe County Justice Center on April 8, 2026.

04/17/2026

"Coming Home Again" play in Maryville May 2026.
"Coming Home Again," a play written, directed, and produced by Tonya Lee Stoutt-Brown (TSB). Playwright Stoutt-Brown produced the play in 2018 at the Baptist Church of Maryville, TN. The two shows were filled with happy attendees. Vet to Vet Tennessee is proud to support "Coming Home Again."

A young soldier comes back home from World War II and finds his country church in humorous chaos. While seeking inner peace, he realizes that no matter how far you go, you can always find your way back in your heart.

Tonya asked Vet to Vet Tennessee again to support the play and advised VTVT that all donations from the play would be directed to VTVT to support its mental health and su***de-prevention programs.

Coming Home Again

First Baptist Church 202 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN

Sat. May 16, 6 p.m.

Sun. May 17, 4:30 p.m.

Free Admission!

VTVT provided mental health support before, during, and after the play. Numerous individuals previously identified themselves or someone they knew as experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal ideation.

TSB's comments after her original play: "I have gotten SO much feedback - not just about the play, but those veterans felt honored. I know Vet to Vet TN was a huge part of that. So, again, thanks. :)" TSB

As a result of Coming Home, VTVT asked TSB if she could write a similar play, "You're Worth It: Because life is Worth living for." The new play's theme was youth and veteran mental health, with an emphasis on su***de awareness, support, and prevention. The play was created and performed by youth students and veterans, with support from theater and mental health professionals, as well as adult volunteers.

“Our Saturday performance will be the main one, featuring the William Blount honor guard and color guard. We'll also do a performance on Sunday afternoon that will be a little more low-key. I wanted to provide an opportunity for people who can't or don't want to drive after dark.” Our actors are hard at work rehearsing their lines. I can hardly wait to see what God has in store for us!” TSB

Click here to view some of the pictures from the previous performance: https://photos.app.goo.gl/1ur43Bx3qN7gDDXdA to view more photos.

Please note: The post photo is of the original cast of "Coming Home."

04/03/2026

V13ION Donates to Vet to Vet TN

V13ION founder Chuck Lambert has partnered with Vet to Vet Tennessee for nearly 12 years, offering hope, providing training, eliminating stigma, raising awareness, and most importantly, saving lives...

In March 2026, Chuck hosted the “V13ION Rooster Strut” bike rally. The event received support from two sponsors to raise awareness about su***de and its deadly effects. The sponsors are Skiles Group of Dallas, TX, and Christian Brothers Christian Automotive.

On April 1, 2026, Chuck attended Vet to Vet TN’s weekly meeting to

On April 1, 2026, Chuck attended Vet to Vet TN’s weekly meeting to present two $250.00 checks. We appreciate the ongoing partnership and support from Chuck and Dorothy Lambert. Accepting the checks was VTVT’s President, Randall Scott.

VTVT’s President, Randall Scott, accepted the checks from the sponsors.

Chuck also announced he is hosting a bike rally on May 22, 2026, in honor of his son, Chad Lambert, on Chad’s 16th anniversary. Chuck said it doesn’t get easier after 16 years.

One of Vet to Vet Tennessee’s mottos is “Do Something,” while V13ION’s motto is “Doing Something.” God bless you, Dorothy and Chuck, for your faithfulness to your son and others who have passed. Chuck recorded the presentation, which you can watch with this link: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1004541392236668

God bless America.

https://www.facebook.com/www.V13ION.net/

03/05/2026

Ohio Korean War Purple Heart Veteran receives Ambassador for Peace Medal

Vet to Vet Tennessee received an application for the Korean War Ambassador for Peace on February 24, 2026 from Charles Allen, son of a Korean War Army Veteran, on behalf of his father, Ernest E. Allen, posthumously, on February 24, 2026.

Mr. Allen’s military records were lost in the fire, and he lacked paperwork to verify his service during the Korean War. However, Charles had a photo of his father receiving his Purple Heart in Korea in 1952, along with an image of his headstone. Usually, a photo of a headstone buried in a veteran’s cemetery is enough. Nonetheless, Mr. Allen’s headstone was not an official military headstone.

We weren’t sure if the information provided would be accepted, but it was! On February 26, Mr. Gilhyun Lee approved the submitted document. Vet to Vet TN sent the Ambassador for Peace Medal and Proclamation, along with Vet to Vet TN’s certificate of honor to Mr. Charles Allen.

We received the following email from Mr. Allen on March 4, 2026:

“I am in receipt, today, of the Korean War Ambassador for Peace Medal, presented posthumously to my father, Ernest E. Allen, by Mr. Gilhyun Lee, Ambassador of Korea. My sincere thanks to the Ambassador and the Republic of Korea for presenting this honor to my late father.

Secondly, I very much appreciate your and your organization's efforts in working with me as a liaison to the Ambassador of Korea and in helping me obtain this honor for my father.

Also very much appreciated is the wonderful Korean War Commemoration Certificate of Honor that your organization, Vet to Vet Tennessee, awarded to my father for his Korean War service.

As a symbol of my appreciation, I have donated $50 to your organization through the link on their website. I know my father would be a very proud recipient of
both the Medal and Commemoration Certificate.

Attached is a photograph of the shadow box I have made for him, honoring his service and awards.

With many sincere thanks to all, Charles E. Allen.”

We are grateful and honored to serve and support Mr. Ernest E. Allen for his courageous service and sacrifice. Please help us locate more American Korean War Veterans. The Korean community deeply respects and admires our Korean War heroes.

02/26/2026

Welcome, Christ Episcopal Church, Clinton, Maryland
We are pleased to announce that Christ Episcopal Church, Clinton, Maryland, is the newest Veteran and Military-Friendly Lead Congregation member to the VMFC network.

Thank you, Reverend Cremelda Yoda and Lay Leader Quentin Banks, Jr., for joining our mission—blessings of good health.

VA telehealth and tele-counseling are available and a good way to help veterans who are isolated and alone during this crisis. You can click here to learn more about the VA's Video Connect Help Desk Support.
https://christchurchclinton.org/

02/23/2026

Tyler Moore, a Combat Army Veteran and Veterans Court Mentor for Vet to Vet Tennessee, takes time from his busy schedule and business to join a Christian Retreat sponsored and funded by the American Warrior Association. He is the fourth Mentor to enjoy the comfort of our Lord.

In 2025, Coast Guard Veteran Robert McAndrew found a Christian retreat for veterans and first responders. The name of the organization is "American Warrior Association." Bob is a Veterans Court Mentor and Chairman of Vet to Vet Tennessee's "Repairs for Heroes" program.

Bob was the first to go from VTVT in 2025. Upon Bob's return from his retreat, he informed VTVT members of the program's benefits. "HEALING!" Since then, two other VTVT Veterans Court Mentors made the journey: Coast Guard Veteran Issac Braun and Coast Guard Veteran

Any Veterans, Firefighters, Police Officers, or First Responders who need to clear their minds in a Christian atmosphere with good-hearted people to help should come here!

"A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick will not s***f out, until he has brought justice through victory. In His name, the nations will put their hope.” ~Matthew 12: 20-21

Summer dates are now available for men's and women's programs! The mountains are calling. Take the first step on your journey today. Apply now at www.awa-usa.org

If you would like to learn more about their retreat, please send them a message at [email protected]. God Bless America.

02/20/2026

Two Sevier County Korean War Veterans received a medal from the Republic of Korea

Tonight, Sevier County Veterans Service Officer Robert Ford had the amazing opportunity to present Mr. Ernest Justus, SSG, U.S. Army, the Korean War Ambassador of Peace Medal. Ernest, 94, the oldest of 9, served during the Korean War, earning the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Korean Service Medal. Ernest's younger brother, Billy Justus, 92, was presented the Ambassador of Peace Medal in 2025. Please give a warm, heartfelt thank you to both Ernest and Billy Justus for their service to this great nation.

Billy on the left, Justus on the right, receiving the AFPM.

https://www.facebook.com/seviercountytn
https://www.facebook.com/seviercountytn

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