Board Members/Officers for 2022-2023
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Cary Hilliard, Chairman
Hilliard served in the US Air Force from 1968 until his retirement in 1993. During his time, Cary served as a Minuteman Two Missle Launch Officer, AC-130 gunship pilot, President Reagan's Air Force One advance team. Hilliard finished his career as a Commander of a unit at Eglin AFB near Ft. Walton Beach, Florida.
Hilliard has served as a County Commissioner and Mayor of Canton.
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Dan Maucieri, Treasurer
Dan Maucieri served in the Air Force in various roles of Aircraft Maintenance in many locations throughout the United States and overseas locations. He retired in 2015 after 30 years of service and moved to Van Zandt County where he is a hobby farmer, community volunteer and works as the County Human Resources Director. Dan and his wife Lynn raised five daughters who come visit often and bring their ten grandkids to enjoy their home in the Country. Dan serves as our Treasurer.
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Virgil Melton, Jr., Director
Virgil Melton served in the United States Marine Corps from February 1967 to August 1971, during which time he was deployed to Vietnam from November 1967 to August 1969. As a member of the 1811 Tanks MOS, he was responsible for operating and maintaining M48A3 tanks, an essential part of the Marine Corps' ground forces during the Vietnam War. His service to his country demonstrated a great deal of courage and dedication, as well as the ability to work well under pressure in dangerous and unpredictable circumstances. Virgil Melton's contributions to the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War are greatly appreciated, and his sacrifice and commitment to our country will always be remembered.
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Dan Curtis, Secretary
Dan is a 29-year retired Army Veteran. He coordinated the Honor Flights from Kansas City and Utah to Washington D.C. spent time as an Army reserve Engineer for 53 countries. Has 53 decorations including 2 Bronze Stars. Voted “BEST ENGINEERING SOLDIER” among U.S. and Allied Nations Military Engineers. Dan and his wife live in Canton.
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Harry Fontenot, Director
Harry Fontenot, retired from the Air Force, is the local Veterans Service Officer available to help all veterans and their families in Van Zandt County.
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Spencer Pennington, Director
Spencer volunteered and was in charge of the Gift Shop / Museum during his Junior and Senior years of High School
He is involved with Whiskers for Wounded Warriors, visiting the VA hospital to check on critical care veterans. Spencer has served as the “official” Bugler of the Veterans Memorial.
Spencer currently works for Bell Textron in the IT Infrastructure Department in Dallas.
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Tim West, Director
Tim is a lifelong Texan and long-time resident of Van Zandt County. Faith and family are the cornerstones of his values. He has been married to Carolyn for over 50 years. He and his wife Carolyn have 3 children, 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
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Don Ashlock, Director
Don Ashlock served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1968 and was part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade deployed in Vietnam. During his service, he demonstrated a high level of bravery, dedication, and commitment to his fellow soldiers and his country. As a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, he was involved in several battles and operations, including the Tet Offensive. His service in Vietnam was marked by valor and sacrifice, and he played a vital role in upholding the mission of the U.S. Army. Don Ashlock's contributions to his country during the Vietnam War are greatly appreciated, and his bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered.