Nominations open for Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards

OLYMPIA — Nominations are being accepted for Washington State’s Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards, according to an announcement from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.

The award honors volunteers, service officers, community members, Tribal veterans, National Guard members or others who day in and day out go above and beyond the call of duty making sure veterans and their family members are cared for, according to the announcement. Whether they submit claims for benefits, arrange funeral honors for grieving families, coordinate events or donate countless hours in veteran’s hospitals or nursing homes, this is an opportunity to nominate them for one of seven Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards.

This awards program is sponsored by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee, the announcement said. Award winners are invited to participate in the Auburn Veteran's Day Parade, followed by recognition at a special luncheon.

Individuals can be nominated for Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards in the following categories:

• Superior Award: This award is the Committee's highest honor and is given to recognize clearly superior accomplishments, achievements, and outstanding performance.

• Distinguished Service Award: This award is used to recognize significant accomplishments and special contributions.

• Team Award: This award is designed to recognize significant accomplishments of a team or group of individuals. This may be for their contributions on a special project, special contribution, and outstanding performance.

Nominations may be submitted at bit.ly/WAOSV24. Nominations may be submitted by any person, organization, or institution and must be received by Sept. 30.