The Pickens County Courier asked the candidates for the upcoming Pickens County Veteran Affairs Director election to give readers a chance to get to know them a little better with responses to four questions.

Their answers, which were limited to 150 words each, begin below.

Interim Veterans Affairs director Walt Carter and local veteran John P. Hembree are set to face off in the upcoming Veterans Affairs advisory election. Voting for the advisory election will run from noon on Monday, April 28, to noon on Friday, May 9. Voting will take place at the Pickens County Elections Office, located at 222 McDaniel Ave., B-9, in Pickens.

Voting is restricted to Pickens County veterans honorably discharged from the armed forces of the United States. Dependents of veterans are not entitled to vote in the election, according to the website. The election has no age limit, and voters are not required to be a registered voter, but must present proof of honorable discharge from military service to the satisfaction of the poll manager.

 

1. Why do you want to serve the veterans of Pickens County?

Walt Carter

1.

It is a way to continue to serve and to help veterans. I have been working to help veterans as the Commander of American Legion Post 52 in Easley for the past 3 years.

I have been volunteering to help veterans long before being asked to step in as the Interim Veteran Affairs Officer.

Working to help veterans isn’t a job. It’s a calling to assist them.

 

John P. Hembree

1.

Serving as the Veterans Service Officer isn’t just a new chapter — it’s a continuation of my lifelong commitment to service. After 26 years in uniform, including time as a Command Sergeant Major, I’ve led in combat zones, training environments, and the most important of all — family life. I’ve stood the watch, carried the weight of leadership, and walked beside those bearing burdens few will ever know.

I want to serve the veterans of Pickens County because I believe, as President Reagan said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” Those who wore the uniform did so out of duty, not for recognition. They deserve support, respect, and a system that works for them.

I see this role as an honor and a responsibility — to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten, not just in words, but through relentless advocacy and dependable service that makes a real difference.

 

2. Compare what you know about the Veterans Affairs Director position with your own knowledge and skill. In what areas do you feel you already excel? What areas do you feel you would need to develop?

Walt Carter

2.

I have served as the Interim Pickens County Veteran Service Officer since June 2024. I am accredited by the American Legion and the South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs. Earning accreditation takes six to nine months of training, and only accredited individuals can assist or represent veterans with claims.

I am a member of the South Carolina Association of County Veteran Affairs Officers. While the county refers to the role as Veterans Affairs Director, the position is that of a Veteran Service Officer (VSO), accredited through organizations like the American Legion, VFW, or DAV. The core responsibility of a VSO is to assist veterans in filing claims and accessing benefits.

Although the position is considered part-time and salaried, the workload often exceeds 40 hours a week due to the constant need for assistance.

I am committed to continued growth in learning the claims process more thoroughly, and strengthening the social skills essential for helping each unique veteran.

 

John P. Hembree

2.

From what I understand, the Veterans Affairs Director position requires a balance of administrative leadership, compassionate service, and community engagement. It means being a voice for veterans, a steward of resources, and a reliable hand to guide them through complex benefits systems.

I excel in areas of communication, problem-solving, and organizational leadership. My background has prepared me to manage sensitive situations with empathy while also navigating bureaucratic systems efficiently. However, I recognize that continual learning is vital — particularly in staying updated on the evolving VA policies, legal requirements, and technology tools used for veteran case management. I am fully committed to that growth.

 

3. How would you improve the customer service and functionality of the Pickens County Veterans Affairs office? What functional aspects do you possess?

Walt Carter

3.

I have submitted a request in next year’s budget for an additional Claims Representative position. This will give us another person to help with the workload in the office.

The County Veteran Affairs officer should be a veteran who has worked in the office at least a year to learn how to represent veterans and be accredited. If a person steps up that way there is no slow down while they are being trained.

I will also continue to reduce the amount of paper in the office by uploading data into computer database and not retaining the paper files.

 

John P. Hembree

3.

The Veterans Affairs Director position requires strong leadership, compassionate service, and consistent community engagement. It’s about being a voice for veterans, a steward of resources, and a trusted guide through the often complex VA system.

I excel in communication, problem-solving, and organizational leadership. My experience has prepared me to handle sensitive situations with empathy while navigating systems efficiently. I understand the importance of accountability, transparency, and follow-through when serving those who’ve served us.

While I bring proven leadership and dedication, I also recognize the need for continued growth — especially in keeping up with evolving VA policies, legal requirements, and technology used in case management. I’m fully committed to learning and staying current, because our veterans deserve nothing less than excellence.

 

4. Outside of assisting veterans and their family members with their VA benefits, how else can Pickens County recognize and honor our servicemen and women?

Walt Carter

4.

To honor our Vietnam Veterans, Pickens County Veterans Affairs is hosting the Vietnam Memorial Wall That Heals May 15-18, 2025, at Deer Wood Farms in Liberty.

We currently sponsor a veterans appreciation dinner and veterans’ parade in November of each year to recognize our veterans.

I support Memorial Day events, Veteran Day events, the Pickens County Veterans Council, the Semper-Fi Barn, and many other veteran organizations.

 

John P. Hembree

4.

Honoring our veterans means more than ceremonies — it means building a culture that sees, values, and includes them every day. We can recognize their service by sharing their stories, educating future generations, and creating real opportunities for veterans to lead, mentor, and stay engaged in our communities.

In Pickens County, that could mean naming public spaces, hosting regular recognition events, and amplifying veteran voices in meaningful ways.

As President Reagan reminded us, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” And as President Obama said, “Our nation endures because of the courage of those who defend it.”

No matter our politics, we must stand united in our gratitude. Veterans deserve more than our thanks — they deserve our daily respect, support, and action. When we honor them fully, we don’t just say thank you — we help carry their legacy forward.