Meet Bedford's New Veterans' Services Officer

Bedford’s new Veterans’ Service Officer may have been on the job for just a few months, but he is very familiar with the services available to those who have served their country.

Bedford resident Bill Linnehan took the position about four months ago, after working for the Massachusetts Department of Career Services for 34 years, most recently as director of the North Central Career Centers in Leominster and Gardner.

“I saw it on Bedford access TV, on the Bedford common show. (Selectman) Cathy Cordes mentioned that the Veterans Service Office was filling the vacancy,” Linnehan said. “It was a good match. The Career Center, which I used to manage, works closely with the town’s Veterans Service offices.”

A veteran himself, Linnehan served in the Navy during Vietnam, working on a crash and rescue boat on an aircraft carrier.

Since he started working in Bedford, Linnehan has been busy. He is in the office at the Town Center two days a week – Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. – and has seen a variety of people.

“I’ve been seeing kind of a mix of people, probably more younger guys, since I’ve been on board,” Linnehan said. “The majority are coming from the VA Hospital (in Bedford) who are here for treatment. Most are young, and a few Vietnam era vets.”

He also works with widowed spouses of veterans, who can also get benefits.

People come seeking a variety of help and services.

“I work with veterans in transition, some in treatment, some in housing looking for benefits, and want information for community resources,” Linnehan said.

When he worked for the state, Linnehan also did a lot of networking for community based organizations, so he knows what services may be available in town that are not under the Veterans' Services Office.

Linnehan is not the only person helping Bedford’s veterans. He works under Ryan Lennon, the District Director of Lexington/Bedford Veterans’ Services.

There are a couple events coming up for veterans, including a Veterans’ Breakfast on Nov. 2 and a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11.

Those interested in veterans’ services can visit the Town Center, 12 Mudge Way in Bedford, call 781-275-1328, or email veterans@bedfordma.gov.