Billy Smith marks three decades on state’s veterans commission

    Billy Smith of Palisade is likely one of the longest serving state commission members in Nebraska.
    Last week, Smith received another five-year appointment to the Nebraska Veterans’ Advisory Commission. He was first appointed in 1991, so has already served 30 years. Smith is the commission’s current chairman.
    Gov. Pete Ricketts announced appointments to a variety of state boards and commissions in a March 25 news release.
    The Veterans’ Advisory Commission investigates the handling of veterans affairs under the NE Director of Veterans’ Affairs. The commission also acts as an appeal board for the Nebraska Veterans’ Aid Fund.
    The commission consists of five members, each appointed by the Governor for a term of five years. Smith’s recent appointment will expire in 2026. He represents the 3rd congressional district.
    Two commission members represent the 1st and 2nd congressional districts and there are two at-large members.
    Smith said he retired from military service after 24 years in the U.S. Coast Guard.