Giving Hero
Gary Suddeath, a Navy Veteran whose heart is as big as his dedication, has been bestowed with the President’s Lifetime Achievement award for volunteering an impressive 4,034 hours at VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS).
The President’s Lifetime Award recognizes outstanding volunteers for their service hours and their impact on the local community. Suddath’s journey into service first began in 2015 after completing five honorable years in the Navy, including enduring three deployments to the Middle East.
Transitioning from the rigors of military life to the Veterans' community at TVHS, Suddeath found solace in giving back to those who had shared similar sacrifices. Embracing his new role with unwavering commitment, Suddeath shared, "I love hearing the stories from Veterans; it’s like treasures, and you can’t trade that for money." These words reflect Suddath’s deep appreciation for the experiences and wisdom of his comrades, acknowledging the priceless value of each narrative.
For Suddeath, the connections forged through volunteering at TVHS have provided him with the best care he has ever received, showing that sometimes the most remarkable healing comes from giving back. Immersing himself in the histories and conversations of fellow Veterans, he finds immense joy in the shared tales that resonate with both hardship and triumph.
Suddeath’s compassionate spirit and genuine interest in his peers' stories have earned him recognition and created a ripple of positivity within the Veterans' community. By cherishing the histories of others and fostering genuine connections, Suddeath embodies the values of camaraderie and support at the core of veteran camaraderie.
“Gary is, first, a Veteran and very helpful and concerned about each Veteran he meets,” said Janis Hardy, volunteer specialist at the Clarksville VA Clinic.
As Suddeath continues to uplift and empower his fellow Veterans, his story stands as a testament to the enduring power of empathy, service, and human connection. Through his selfless actions, Suddeath exemplifies the true essence of a hero – one who gives not for accolades or praise but out of an unyielding desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
For more information on how to be a part of the Clarksville volunteer team, call 931-645-3552.