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Jennifer a. Smith
Director of Marketing for the Veterans Coalition
Jennifer A. Smith is the Marketing Director for Veterans Coalition Inc, where she spearheads initiatives to amplify the organization’s mission and reach. As the Senior Vice Commander for Post 2681, Jennifer demonstrates exemplary leadership and dedication to veteran affairs. Her tireless commitment to serving veterans, their families, and communities has earned her a nomination for Service Officer of the Year. Jennifer is renowned for her compassion and advocacy, striving to improve the lives of those who have served.
With a strong background in marketing and a profound dedication to veteran support, she is a vital asset to both her organization and the broader community. Jennifer’s work embodies a deep-seated passion for making a meaningful impact.
Phone: 470-337-5633
DREW KEENAN
Chief Financial Officer
Veteran Assistance | Georgia, USA | 770-298-7426 (vcfusa.org)
Drew Keenan currently serves The Veterans Coalition Foundation as it’s Chief Financial Officer.
A graduate of the Prestigious New York Institute of Finance, the institution where Wall Street Investment Houses educate future financial advisors. Drew joined the firm of Bear, Stearns & Company in 1970. In 1971, Drew received his Draft Notice and joined the United States Navy. He was trained as a Fleet Marine Force Hospital Corpsman and was sent to Viet-Nam where he served 13 months in the Medical Corps .
Upon his return to the United States he was stationed at The Naval Training Center, Recruit Training Command, San Diego, California, in the medical unit.
Upon his Honorable discharge from the Navy in 1975, Drew joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve and was stationed at The Marine Corps Air Station at El Toro, California at one of the bases medical units. Upon his discharge, Drew joined the firm of MZ, Inc, a Financial Services Institution in Thousand Oaks, California, as its Operations Officer. During this period of time, Drew was appointed to The City of Moorpark, California Planning Commission by the cities’ Mayor, Letta Yancy Sutton. Drew served 4 terms on the Moorpark City Planning Commission.
Drew, and his, family moved to Marietta, Georgia in 1996. He joined The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 2681 in Marietta, Georgia where he has served as it’s Adjutant, Jr-Vice Commander, Sr-Vice Commander and currently is serving as the Post Commanding Officer. Drew also currently serves the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars, District 1, as it’s Quartermaster/Financial Officer and serves the State Headquarters of The Veteran’s of Foreign Wars as Director of Employment Development and Chairman of The State Grant Program. In the past he has served the State Headquarters, as its Legislative Liaison and State Surgeon.
In June, 2021 The Veterans of Foreign Wars, State of Georgia, recognized Drew as their “Man of the Year” with the designation of “Mr. VFW”.
In 2023 Governor Brian Kemp honored Drew’s years of service to The State of Georgia with a Commission, as a Lieutenant Colonel, Aid-de-Camp Governors Staff, in The Georgia State Militia.
Drew currently lives in Marietta, Georgia, with Rose Ann, his wife of 47 years.
JOEL WILLIS
Chairman Of The Board
Joel L. Willis is a retired Decorated Senior Combat Veteran who served over 22 years in the United
States Army. After his retirement, he went on to work as a Security Operations Manager at one of
the world’s largest and busiest airports, Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson Airport. While working at
Hartsfield Jackson, he helped to draft the airport security plan in light of safety concerns following
the attacks on 9/11.
After several years working at the airport, he left to become an advocate for Veterans working with
the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS), as a Senior Appeals claims officer
(which is where he met his lovely wife Monica). He worked tirelessly representing nearly 2500
Veterans for VA benefits before judges at the Board of Veterans Appeals and was able to do so with
a 92% benefit approval rate. As a member of the National Service Officer Committee, he serves as a
voice for the Veteran community and provides his knowledge and experience for other service
officers. He also provides vision and voice serving as a member of the VA Hospital Directors Board.
From 2020-2021, he served as the State Commander for the VFW Department of Georgia where
he in charge of Veteran services related to nearly 30 thousand Veterans from every corner of the
state. In prior years, he was also named All American District Commander. Because of his
passion for serving Veterans and their families, Mr. Willis volunteers to help Veterans secure
housing, jobs, education, benefits, medical treatment and much more.
In mid 2021, Mr. Willis became Co-Founder and Director of the Veterans Coalition, one of Georgia’s
legislative organizations fighting on behalf of Veterans and families by changing laws
and public policies. The Coalition also stands unified with Veteran Service Organizations across the
state to bring forth proposals and causes for action. Mr. Willis represents Veterans and their families
before the State Senate and has served as a member of the National Inter-service Veterans
committee for the past five years. In addition, Mr. Willis serves as a stakeholder for the VA Hospital
Counsel, and 2023, he was appointed by Governor Kemp to serve as a military advisor for the State.
Finally, with all of the amazing accomplishments noted above, this distinguished gentleman also
holds the most rewarding title of loving husband, being married to Mrs. Monica Willis, father, and
grandfather that loves to spend quality time with family and to be there to support them in their
endeavors.
wILBERT JORDAN
Vice Chairman
Wilbert Jordan is a distinguished war hero and retired Sergeant Major of the United States Army, whose unwavering dedication and valor have left an indelible mark on the annals of military history. Jordan's journey into the world of service and sacrifice began early, as he felt a profound calling to defend his nation.
Throughout his illustrious military career, Jordan displayed exceptional leadership, earning numerous accolades for his bravery and strategic acumen on the battlefield. His deployments spanned several conflict zones, where he exhibited unparalleled courage in the face of adversity. Jordan's leadership and selflessness under fire garnered him the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors alike.
Upon retiring from active duty, Jordan transitioned seamlessly into a role of influence and advocacy for veterans. Serving as the Vice President and Director of Community Outreach for the Veterans Coalition Foundation, he played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between veterans and the support they require. Jordan's tireless efforts have led to significant strides in providing essential resources, healthcare, and opportunities for veterans across the nation.
Beyond his official duties, Jordan remains a tireless advocate for veterans' rights, utilizing his extensive network to champion policies that enhance the lives of those who have served their country. His passion for the welfare of veterans is evident in every initiative he undertakes, from spearheading awareness campaigns to collaborating with government agencies and non-profit organizations.
Wilbert Jordan's legacy is one of valor, service, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of veterans. His life's work stands as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have in making a difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for their nation.
NORMAN DE WALT
Board Member
Is a distinguished individual with a remarkable history of service and achievement. He honorably served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1971 to 1976, demonstrating his dedication to his country. Notably, he played a crucial role in the rescue of Phnom Penh in April of 1975, showcasing his courage and commitment in the face of adversity.
In May of the same year, Norman was instrumental in the response to the American cargo ship SS Mayaguez being seized by the Cambodian Khmer Rouge navy. Through his efforts, the crew was successfully rescued after three days and nights of intensive bombing missions in Cambodia, exemplifying his resolute determination to ensure the safety of others. Norman also played a vital role in the rescue of U.S. personnel during the Fall of Saigon in April 1975, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his fellow citizens.
Transitioning into civilian life, Norman pursued a career as a computer engineer, providing crucial support to both the production line and executive staff at Marietta Plant No. 6. His technical expertise and dedication contributed significantly to the success of the company.
After a fulfilling and accomplished career, Norman De Walt retired from Lockheed Martin in Marietta, Georgia. His legacy is one of bravery, service, and technical excellence, leaving an indelible mark on those he served alongside and the communities he contributed to.