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Gen. Mike Minihan, Commander of Air Mobility Command, visits the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station June 8, 2024.

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Reservist helps vets in and out of uniform

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Caya
  • 914th Airlift Wing
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y.-- --  When Tech. Sgt. Jerry Evans of the 914th Logistics Readiness Squadron isn't instructing his Airmen in their trade of Vehicle Maintenance here, he is lending his time and expertise to other service members in need around the world.

In his civilian capacity Evans, a licensed mental health counselor, works as a nationwide crisis hotline responder for U.S. Military Veterans at the Veterans Administration in Canandaigua, N.Y.

Rich Barham is the Assistant Program Manager at the VA Crisis Center in Canandaigua and Evans' civilian supervisor.

"Sergeant Evans' attention to detail is phenomenal," said Barham. "He is part of a group of nine other staff members who work during a specific time when the most calls come in. We chose him to work an alternative shift."

Evans said the nature of his civilian job can sometimes be mentally draining, with the long days assisting veterans who need someone to talk to.
"Emotions run high," said Evans.

After working in such an intense environment, switching gears from civilian to military has its advantages.

"My job in the Reserves is physically demanding...it's not as stressful on the mind. It's nice to have a break," said Evans.

Although he is a vehicle maintainer while he wears his Air Force uniform, Evans still gives counsel and advises Airmen around the base on any issue they are dealing with; from just being a person that listens to helping them navigate through the VA processes.

"I know a lot about filing claims," said Evans. "I know how to help them get connected with the benefits they need. I helped a lot of Airmen in LRS and then they bring their friends over to see me a lot of times."

"His passion for veterans is huge," said Barham, stating that Evans has assisted Veterans across the spectrum--from working with homeless veterans in Buffalo, N.Y. -- to working with them from his position in the call center.

Barham has seen and heard Evans interact with the veterans who call the crisis hotline.

"He has the ability to connect with the vets really quick and that's because he is one. He is passionate and works with the veteran to get the help they need at the level they need," Barham stated.