For 29 years, retired Brig. Gen. Jack Fox served in the U.S. Army – from Alaska and the Arctic Circle to Germany during the days of the Soviet Union and Korea, making memories and lifelong friendships.
Born and raised in Roswell, he was selected by Gov. Susana Martinez to become the new secretary of the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services.
Fox attended the New Mexico Military Institute before attending and graduating from New Mexico State University in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in government.
“With my education at NMSU, as a government major, I became more aware of the responsibilities of citizens, and being an ROTC cadet prepared me for my military career,” he said. “At NMSU the experience with the faculty and the students reminded me that we all have a responsibility to take care of each other, and to me that is what I remember about NMSU, that it is a caring community.”
His military knowledge as well as his life experience and education helped him shape his vision as newly appointed secretary of the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services.
“I have three goals,” he said. “One is to educate. Second, job creation, and third, care.”
Fox said he wants to ensure communication with all members of the veterans’ community and their families, so they understand what benefits they have earned and are entitled to.
“We also would like to remind the public of the sacrifices that all veterans have made, and what they have contributed to society,” he added.
As far as creating jobs, Fox plans to help any veteran, who is interested in establishing or going into a business, understand what is available and direct them to other organizations that can help them achieve their goals.
“We want to partner with other state agencies to make sure veterans are aware of job opportunities in New Mexico,” Fox said.
“Our efforts will ensure that all veterans are aware of benefits that can help them with their mental and physical well-being. Also, we help veterans with issues such as homelessness,” he said about the pressing issues regarding veteran care.
Information from NMSU