Shane Prater, a combat veteran with over 15 years’ experience filing claims through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, was chosen Tuesday night to be the new Campbell County Veterans Affairs Officer.
Currently a certified occupational therapy assistant, Prater served two combat deployments as an airborne infantryman. He graduated from Cumberland Gap High School and obtained an associate of applied science degree from Roane State Community College.
On his resume, Prater said, “In my own time, I have mentored and educated multiple veterans on the benefits entitled to them, how to submit claims, and other necessary procedures involved in obtaining their benefits through the VA.”
Prater was nominated by the Campbell County Commission’s insurance and personnel committee after interviews with the five candidates for the position.
“This was the hardest thing I’ve had to deal with in a long time,” said Rusty Orick, committee chair. He described the interviewees as “five great applicants.”
Prater will take the position to replace Kevin Walden, who retired Dec. 29.
The commission vote to hire Prater was unanimous.
