Coworkers honor Army service of former state employee

With a cheerful countenance and a beaming grin, Army veteran Joe Herigon had the unique ability to brighten everyone's day at the Missouri Division of Workforce Development in Jefferson City. And even during his confrontation with cancer - sadly, a battle which he lost last August - Herigon was always able to maintain a positive outlook.

To honor the memory and military service of Herigon, coworkers recently presented his wife, Lorene, with a Presidential Memorial Certificate.

"Joe always showed up to work in a great mood and was truly adored by his coworkers," stated Julie Gibson, director of the Missouri Division of Workforce Development.

"He was so proud of his time in the Army and really enjoyed visiting with his fellow employees about his experiences," Gibson added.

The Presidential Memorial Certificate is an engraved document signed by the president of the United States as part of a program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Next of kin and loved ones of honorably discharged veterans can request the certificate.

"This is really a wonderful tribute," stated Ms. Herigon. "It's really hard to put into words what this means to me ... but it is nice to see Joe being honored for his service to the country."

For more information on the program and how eligible recipients can request copies, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.cem.va.gov/pmc.asp.

Jeremy Amick served in the military for 11 years, is a life member of the Disabled American Veterans, and public affairs officer for the Silver Star Families of America.