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After years of supporting and bringing awareness to Covington County veterans, John Vick is now the one being recognized as U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville named him “Veteran of the Month.”

Tuberville released a video last week naming Vick as the Veteran of the Month. The video can be found by clicking here.

A Red Level native and graduate of Andalusia High School, Vick attended Auburn University on a Navy ROTC scholarship, earning a degree in mechanical engineering. In 1962, he joined the U.S. Navy and achieved the rank of lieutenant before returning home to Covington County in 1966.

“When you ask John Vick of Andalusia where his desire to serve in the military began, he traces it back to when he was just seven years old,” Tuberville said. “Growing up near a depot in the small town of Red Level, John recalls watching the train bring in flag-draped caskets of American soldiers killed in war. He was touched by the patriotism of his local community to honor each of these soldiers who’d made the ultimate sacrifice. This experience not only created a desire to serve in the military, but to ensure that the sacrifices of America’s heroes are never forgotten.”

In 2019, Vick founded the Covington Veterans Foundation and serves as the organization’s board chairman. The foundation’s purpose is to “preserve, recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of former and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have lived and worked in Covington County.” Vick also shared the stories of countless local veterans through his research and writings, many of which were published in the Star-News.

“In 2019, John founded the Covington Veterans Foundation where he continues this spirit of patriotism that was instilled in him as a child. Thanks to John’s efforts, CVF has been able to display more than 600 veteran banners throughout the City of Andalusia. He has also served for a number of years as chairman of the board of Southern National Corporation and has served on the board of CCB Community Bank for more than 45 years. Additionally, John is an active member of the Andalusia Lions Club and First Methodist Church of Andalusia. He represents the ideals of service and patriotism that Alabamians hold so dear,” Tuberville said in the announcement.

Constituents can nominate an Alabama veteran for Veteran of the Month by emailing press_office@tuberville.senate.gov.

“This is a great honor by Senator Tuberville,” Vick said. “I would like to thank Covington Electric Cooperative for nominating me and thanks to Michele (Gerlach) for writing the article that accompanied the nomination. I am humbled and blessed.”