Politics & Government

Melrose Appoints New Leader For Its Veteran Community

The city previously co-ran its veterans services with two other nearby communities.

The Veterans’ Services office is located on the first floor of Melrose City Hall.
The Veterans’ Services office is located on the first floor of Melrose City Hall. (Dakota Antelman/Patch)

MELROSE, MA — The City Council unanimously approved the appointment of a new Veterans’ Services Agent during a recent meeting.

Tamara Shovelton was appointed by Mayor Jen Grigoraiaits earlier this month, and the Council’s approval was the final step in the process. The purpose of the position is to advocate for Melrose veteran residents and support them through direction with things like finances and benefits.
Shovelton earned two Master’s degrees in history from Arizona State University and the University of North Carolina Wilmington respectively. She also served in the United States Army before beginning her working career where she has experience as a college educator and private-sector business leader.

“Melrose veterans are a diverse group, with different service experiences, ages, professional lives and current needs, and the Veterans’ Services Department is here to meet their needs and priorities wherever they are in life.”

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Previously, Melrose, Saugus, and Wakefield shared their veterans’ services until the partnership ended earlier this year.

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