Burkes Honored at Veterans Home

Burkes

KOSCIUSKO, Miss. (Press Release) — On Friday, May 8, retiring Chairman of the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, Wayne Burkes, was honored for his lifetime of service, dedication and accomplishment.  The chapel at the Kosciusko State Veterans Home was designated as The Wayne O. Burkes Veterans Chapel.

“Throughout his life Wayne Burkes has consistently, without hesitation, put the needs of others before his own,” Randy Reeves, Executive Director of the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, said.  “Always kind and compassionate, he has given of his time and talents, never asking nor expecting anything in return.”

General Wayne Burkes has served the United States and the State of Mississippi for over 60 years with unmatched distinction.  In addition to his military service, Wayne Burkes served in elected and appointed positions both at the State and National level, always achieving results that have greatly benefited the citizens of our Country and, most notably, our Veterans.  A man of unwavering faith; he has also served for many years as a pastor and deacon, ministering to the spiritual needs of many and positively touching the lives of all who meet him.

General Burkes served as Chairman of the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board where he oversaw policy to serve the over 227,000 Mississippi Veterans.  A signature accomplishment of his time on the Board; he was instrumental in the design and construction of Mississippi’s first State Veterans Cemetery at Newton.

To recognize General Burkes’ lifetime of accomplishments, Governor Phil Bryant issued a Mississippi Resolution which was read at the ceremony at the Kosciusko Veterans Home.