25 LC 112 3198 Senate Resolution 298 By: Senators Anderson of the 43rd, Davenport of the 17th, Wicks of the 34th, Rhett of the 33rd, Harbison of the 15th and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing and commending LaVeda Bennett; and for other purposes. 1 WHEREAS, LaVeda Bennett has dedicated her life to service, demonstrating exceptional2 commitment to her country, her fellow veterans, and her community throughout her3 distinguished career and advocacy efforts; and4 WHEREAS, born in Chicago to renowned guitarist Wayne Bennett and evangelist Pravella5 Washington, she graduated from William Anderson Bass High School in Atlanta in 1976;6 and7 WHEREAS, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps a day before her 20th birthday,8 serving for 20 years and participating in major conflicts while excelling as a member of the9 All-Marine Women's Softball Team and the Commander's Bowling Teams; and10 WHEREAS, a tireless advocate for veterans, she has dedicated innumerable hours of her11 time and energy toward the Atlanta VA Women's Wellness Clinic, serving as the Volunteer12 Representative for Women Veterans, and she played a pivotal role in DeKalb County's13 proclamation of "She Served Too," recognizing the contributions of women veterans; and14 S. R. 298 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3198 WHEREAS, she has amassed over 100,000 volunteer hours advocating for veterans, 15 particularly women and homeless veterans, earning two Presidential Lifetime Achievement16 Awards, five proclamations, and numerous recognitions for her dedicated service; and17 WHEREAS, a respected leader in her community, she has worked with government officials18 in DeKalb, Clayton, and Henry counties, served on many boards, and launched impactful19 community programs such as "Her Valor," "Watch Me Grow," and "Carey's Garden," which20 educate children and community members on gardening and sustainability; and21 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this22 remarkable and distinguished individual be appropriately recognized.23 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body24 recognize and commend LaVeda Bennett for her exceptional service, tireless advocacy for25 veterans, and unwavering dedication to her community as well as extend the most sincere26 best wishes for continued success in all her endeavors.27 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed28 to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to LaVeda Bennett.29 S. R. 298 - 2 -