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The unexpected honor

Ed Hamilton receiving award.
By Tracy Thomas, Public Affairs Outreach Specialist

In the heart of the Chattanooga VA Clinic, the Whole Health team stands as a beacon of hope for many Veterans returning from service. If walls could speak, they would weave tales of courage, struggle, and incredible healing journeys.

At the center of this dedicated team is Ed Hamilton, VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) whole health supervisor and certified health and wellness coach.

Brandon Hughes, retired Master Sergeant in the Army, crossed paths with Hamilton five years ago. Hughes quickly learned that Hamilton was a combat Veteran like himself, with a heart driven by profound care for Veterans. Their first meeting had begun with skepticism, typical of those who had seen too much and trusted too little, yet it soon blossomed into something more – an immediate camaraderie.
 
“The first encounter I liked his demeanor and immediately felt comfortable, within the first 10 minutes Ed had me hysterically laughing,” Hughes said. “Ed’s care and concern for ‘his Veterans’ is genuine and pure. He has shown us how to objectively look at ourselves and problem solve. Through Ed, I have traded alcohol for running and hiking, and I am in better shape now than I was when I was on active duty.” 

Hughes was at an event one evening and State Senator Adam Lowe was a guest speaker. Hughes explained to Senator Lowe how Hamilton had helped him and many other Veterans at the clinic. Lowe suggested nominating him to be honored as a Tennessee Colonel. 

The Colonel Aide de Camp (www.colonelcy.org/tennessee-colonel) is an honorary commission and award of recognition issued by the Governor of Tennessee and available only to Tennessee residents. Hughes worked with State Senator Bo Watson’s office of Hamilton County to follow the proper steps and background checks. Senator Watson was able to have Tennessee Governor Bill Lee sign the request for Hamilton to receive the prestigious award.

After months of planning and secrecy, the presentation day arrived. Little did Hamilton know he would be the center of attention on Nov. 18, 2024.   

Hamilton never intended to be in the spotlight; he preferred to shoulder his responsibilities quietly, deflecting any accolades from himself to his team. Staff and Veterans gathered in a conference room where Hughes and Senator Watson waited on Hamilton to arrive for the much-anticipated surprise.
 
As the crowd settled, the moment came for Senator Watson to speak, and he talked about the award and its relevance. It was a heartfelt speech about an employee’s dedication and the positive ripples his work created for Veterans he has served. The senator himself shared a few charming anecdotes, painting the picture of a man whose humility was matched only by his bravery.

When Hamilton’s name was called to receive the Colonel Aide de Camp award, the room erupted in applause. He stood frozen for a moment, mouth slightly agape, as if trying to comprehend what was happening.
 
As he stepped up, the room filled with admiration. “I can’t believe this,” Hamilton said as he shook his head in disbelief. “I am in a special place where I can continue to serve my country after I completed my service in the Army. I reach a lot of Veterans who need someone who can meet them where they are at and understands the challenges we have after service. I’m honored to receive this award,” he added.    
 
Hamilton ultimately accepted the award but only after sharing praise for his fellow workers, each a soldier in the mission to heal the Veteran community. Many colleagues approached him, patting his back, making it clear that whether he liked it or not, recognition had found its way to a man who often rejected the spotlight.

Hamilton’s journey is a reminder that real heroes often walk among us, unsung yet radiant, proving daily that when given the chance, all it takes is one person’s genuine care to make a difference in the lives of many. Tennessee's award was simply a reflection of a man who had always been a colonel in our hearts.
 
Whole Health education is available at all TVHS major locations. To connect with a Whole Health Partner and register for one of the courses, contact the following: