The highest recognition the Knoxville Regional Veterans Mental Health Council (Council) and Vet to Vet Tennessee (V2VT) can bestow on an individual is the Joseph “JL” Tucker Memorial Award. The award was presented to the former Associate Chief of Staff Mental Health Dr. Heidi Vermette by Mountain Home VAMC Facility Director Mr. Dean Borsis on behalf of the Knoxville Regional Veterans Mental Health Council (Council) and Vet to Vet Tennessee on October 17, 2017.
Dr. Vermette was the first Mountain Home VAMC liaison to the Council in November 14, 2013. She remained in that position until September 2017.
Even though the Council and the Mountain Home VAMC leadership had enormous bridges to build, Dr. Vermette never stop trying to “help veterans.” Her leadership and vision really excelled in January 2016 with the support from acting Facility Director Dan Snyder.
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Peer support according to the VA Veterans Health Administration Handbook 1163.4, Psychological Rehabilitation Family Services, was implemented.
Freddie Owens, Dr. Vermette, Ron Kirby
Bridge building & repairs were replaced with a true partnership . The monthly council meeting’s emerged as solution oriented and visionary. The cooperation and teamwork was incredible; action items from the council meeting were usually completed Dr. Vermette in 48 hours.
Because of Dr. Vermette relentless dedication and empathy toward veterans, their families and the council she was awarded the Joseph “JL” Tucker Memorial Award.
Upon receiving the award she wrote: “Mr. Borsos gave me the certificate from you today. All I can say is that I am truly touched and honored. Hearing from Veterans means more to me than any degree I have on my wall (although those are important too). Please pass on my thanks for this to everyone involved in putting it together. I know you will continue to go on and do great things.” 10-17-17 Heidi Vermette, MDPCMHI Staff Psychiatrist.
Dr. Vermette is still working at the Mountain Home VAMC as a staff psychiatrist. We are blessed she did not leave us!
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