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New Service Officer Looks Forward to Helping Veterans
“As soon as I stepped into this office, I knew I wanted to be a part of it somehow,” says Marlo Anderson, Claims Consultant in the Utah VFW office. After a short two weeks on the job, she knows she belongs here.
Anderson’s first visit however, found her on the other side of the desk. She entered as a new veteran seeking the help of the man who is now her mentor, Mike Jensen.
A veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, Anderson was deployed to Afghanistan in 2006 directly after completing her training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas.
“I was affected by the war and sought the help I needed after I got back,” she explains matter of factly. “Sometimes it’s like a movie playing in your head that you can’t stop. But you have to learn to deal with it.”
Her personal experience allows her to relate to the veterans she meets as a claims consultant.
“I know what stressors our vets are dealing with,” she shares. “We want the best for our troops, and we can and must learn from past experiences. We know what kinds of services and help they’ll need as soon as they get home.”
Meeting with our newest veterans as soon as possible is a goal of Anderson’s, and she’s committed to seeing that it gets done.
“It’s vital that we get our hands on them as soon as they get out that’s what I’m here for.”
In fact, Anderson’s unit, the 419th Security Forces of Hill AFB, Utah, contacted her to meet with returning members of her old squad and speak with them during processing. Anderson says it’s the best time to educate returning troops about benefits, therapy and how to make the transition back into civilian life as smooth as possible.
“When I was over there, I was one of the guys,” she continues. “But as a woman, I was also sister, mother and confidante.
“I was honored to be there for them then, and I’m honored to be here for them now.”
As with any rewarding job, Anderson feels she gets as much as she gives.
“It means so much to know that they trust me. They’re so appreciative of what we do for them,” she says.
“Even if they don’t actually say ‘Thanks,’ it’s enough for us to know we’re taking care of them.”
For now, Anderson’s biggest challenge is learning the ins and outs of the position and preparing to begin her Service Officer Training in February.
“I’m just trying to pick Mike’s brain right now,” she laughs. “I want to know everything he knows so I can serve the people who are serving me serving all of us right now.” |
