The Granville County Veterans Services Department welcomes Melissa Purick to the role of Veterans Services director. Purick will succeed current director Albert “A.J.” Spiess, who will retire on April 30.

The Veterans Services department assists local veterans and their families navigate the complex processes to access programs and  resources at the state and federal levels.

Purick is a Veteran of the United States Air Force, where she served as a member of the Security Forces, protecting government personnel, facilities, and assets. Following her honorable discharge from the Air Force, Purick served the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She worked as an inspector, enforcing federal regulations and conducting investigations related to the safety of federal facilities. In 2009, she entered the private sector as an Operations/Ramp Agent and Customer Service Manager with Southwest Airlines, primarily at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

“I am committed to serving all Granville County Veterans and their families,” said Purick. “The Veterans Services staff is honored to serve those who have given so much to our nation. Our office will work tirelessly to ensure that Veterans and their families have access to all benefits and services that they have earned for their service.”

Purick is a member of the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers and is actively pursuing her accreditation in veteran services. She and her husband, Michael, have been together for fifteen years. She is the mother of two daughters, Amber and Autumn, and stepmother to three children. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and spending time with her family.

The Granville County Veterans Services Office is located at 141 Williamsboro St. in Oxford. Learn more at

www.granvillecounty.org/233/Veterans-Services or call the office at 919.693.1484.