New Leader For Wounded Warrior Program

The Virginia Wounded Warrior Program for Health Planning Region I has hired retired Colonel Donald “Don” Howell as the new regional coordinator. He replaces Camilla Schwoebel, who was promoted to regional director through the Virginia Department of Veteran Services.

Howell served more than 25 years on active duty in the U.S. Army and retired as a Colonel (O-6) after four deployments (Operation Desert Storm, Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the Balkans) and 16 years of overseas duty. His experience includes managing return to duty personnel and rear operations at Fort Hood during the peak of forces rotation in Operation Iraq Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Howell is the recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He has a Master's degree in Family Counseling from Boston University and a Master's degree in Strategic Planning from the Army War College. Howell resides in Nokesville, with his wife Sarah, and two sons.

For more information about the Virginia Wounded Warrior Program, please contact Howell at 540-373-3223, ext. 3003. To learn more about the Virginia Wounded Warrior Program in this area and additional support groups, visit www.nwvawoundedwarrior.org. Or, visit the state website: www.wearevirginiaveterans.org

In 2009, the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB) received notice of a grant from the Virginia Department of Veterans Services to provide services to veterans and their families. The services are intended to address post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, both in terms of the direct psychological effects on the veteran and also the impact this has on family members. The Virginia Wounded Warrior Program was created by the 2008 General Assembly to ensure that services to veterans and their families are readily available in all areas of the state.