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?