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Date: 6/21/2021
AGAWAM – The town of Agawam appointed new Veterans Director Christopher Lanski on May 17.
After serving in the United States Marine Corps for 22 years, Lanski worked as an Agawam police officer for eight years. Through his affiliation with the town, he was on the Veterans Council for six years.
According to the town’s website, “Agawam is the home office of the Department of Veterans’ Services for the Western Hampden District, which includes the towns of Agawam, Southwick, Granville, Russell and Tolland.”
Lanski said he discovered this position through a posting from the town. Richard Girard, the town’s veterans director at the time, was retiring and moving to Florida.
After compiling his resume, cover letter, and application, Lanski went through the interview process, which included all of the five towns.
“There were a few applicants in the town,” he said.
Mayor William Sapelli and the selectmen from the partner communities were offering this position to candidates in Agawam, however, if there weren't enough candidates, this would open to the other towns. Lanski, however, fit the needs of the position and was offered the job.
As a result, Lanski decided to leave the Police Department and begin his new journey as veterans director.
Lanski said, “My duties and responsibilities mainly consist of two things. One is from the state of Massachusetts and the other is federal – the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).”
A veterans director’s role is to help individuals and their children, spouses, etc., with medical situations, explained Lanski.
“I provide assistance with monthly monetary types of values,” he stated.
The VA assists with pension, compensation and disability, among other issues facing veterans.
In addition, the Veterans Director partakes in all activities, including parades, ceremonies such as Veterans Day and Memorial Day, along with flagging for graves.
“Between the office here and the Veterans Council, it’s a combined effort,” he said.
Lanski informed Reminder Publishing that Betty Manchino, assistant director, retired on June 15. For 34 and a half years, Manchino worked for the town of Agawam – 14 of which were with the Veterans Office. This position will be filled by someone already working for the town.
Looking forward, Lanski said he is most thrilled about helping veterans and their families in any way possible.