Cook couple honored with Red, White and Blue Award
The Red, White and Blue Award is presented to individuals that illustrate outstanding faith and understanding of the principles of the United States of America, as well as show their own personal patriotism by leading through example in the community.
At this particular meeting, the award was bestowed upon two people who not only serve the veterans through hard labor, but also by becoming a voice for them at a government level. Both Ed and Debbie Cook were honored to become the next recipients of the Red, White and Blue Award, as they were given the plaque by American Legion first vice commander of the 10th district in Ohio, Charles Strizak.
"One of the reasons I'm here today is to honor two people who have done a lot for the American Legion and all veterans," Strizak said.
Strizak went on to describe how Debbie Cook, who is an Army peace-time veteran herself, began her work for the Tuscarawas County Veteran Services office in 1998 as a secretary. In 2005, she became nationally accredited as a service officer and became the director.
"It's a very tough job," Strizak said. "It's not an easy task, so I congratulate you on the faith the veterans have in you. You should be proud of all that you do because I know they are."
Ed Cook was also honored for his work at Dover Burial Park. Although he is not a veteran himself, he tirelessly works to make sure every veteran grave is honored with a flag, as well as collaborating alongside his wife to organize any ideas she may have, including the most recent trip to the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman.
"I'm not a veteran, but the things I do with the cemetery, that's the least I can do for the veterans," Ed Cook said. "I enjoy doing that and it's an honor. Whatever job I can do, I'm proud to do it."
Debbie Cook added, "I love my job. I love working with the veterans on a daily basis. I couldn't do it without my husband. He believes in the veterans."
As director, Debbie Cook acts as a liaison between veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs. She assists the veterans in applying for VA claims and benefits they qualify for, helping them fill out packets of information that they would otherwise be required to do alone. Her office works with the veteran in filing a claim from the very start to very finish.
"Anytime you need help, they're the people to go see," Strizak explained.
Debbie Cook summed up her thoughts on receiving such a prestigious award from the American Legion. "It's a privilege to work with the veterans like I do," she said. "I'm working with men and women who have fought for our freedoms and rights."