Smith is New VSA Director

Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards has announced that Troy D. Smith has been named the County's newest Veterans Service Agency Director. Smith will took over as VSA Director, effective Monday, August 4, 2008.

"Troy is an amazing asset for the veterans of Chautauqua County," Edwards said. "He brings a number of skills to the table that will be crucial in the operation of the Veterans Service Agency."

The Veterans Service Agency is a part of the New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs. The NYSDVA was created in 1945 as part of the Executive Department to assist veterans, members of the armed forces, their families, and their dependents in securing benefits earned through military service.

For more than half a century, the division has been a strong advocate for veterans and veteran issues at the local, state, and national level.

"The Chautauqua County VSA has dramatically improved its service to our County's veterans and their families in the last 2 1/2 years, and I am confident that Troy will help our team make even further strides," Edwards said.

Edwards said New York has a proud history of service to those who have served their country.

Smith was born and raised in Jamestown. He retired from the U.S. Army in 2003 after 21 years of active duty service. He is a Desert Shield / Desert Storm combat veteran.

Troy holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Columbia Southern University. He previously worked at the Jamestown Home Depot as the Human Resources Manager.

Smith is a life long member of the Mayville VFW, and also a member of the Mayville American Legion.

Troy has been married for 23 years to Cherie Mazany-Smith, and has two children; Nathan and Tiffany.