Honoring Heroes: Veterans Graduation at Cobb County Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court

The Cobb County Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court held a momentous graduation ceremony on Friday, July 19th, celebrating the dedication and resilience of three veterans who successfully completed the program. The court’s mission is to divert eligible veteran defendants with substance dependency and/or mental illness, who are charged with felony criminal offenses, to a specialized criminal court. The program spans 18 to 24 months and is designed to connect veterans with mental health and substance abuse treatment, along with community resources, to foster a healthy, productive life and reduce future involvement with the criminal justice system.

The ceremony took place in the Cobb County Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court and honored graduates Eric Hood, George Flowers Jr., and Leigh Olson. The event commenced with a warm welcome from Judge Robert D. Leonard II, the presiding Veterans Court Judge. The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard followed with a dignified presentation of colors.

Marine Sergeant Major Ernie Hines, who also serves as the mentor coordinator, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Retired Captain Moses Stith, a U.S. Navy Chaplain, delivered a heartfelt invocation, setting a solemn yet hopeful tone for the ceremony.

Judge Leonard then returned to the podium to introduce the special guests, such as Superior Court Judge Angela Z. Brown who was in attendance and many others special guest. Veterans Court Coordinator Katelyn Parker took the stage to introduce the graduates, each of whom shared poignant remarks that moved many to tears. Eric Hood, one of the graduates, expressed his gratitude by presenting Judge Leonard with a shadow box and a t-shirt as tokens of appreciation for his unwavering support.

Before concluding the ceremony, Judge Leonard spoke about the “Fallen Comrade Table,” a symbolic tribute presented at all veterans’ events to honor those who have fallen. The ceremony concluded with a celebratory atmosphere, as graduates took numerous photos and enjoyed a delicious cake.

This graduation not only marked the culmination of a rigorous program but also celebrated the beginning of a new chapter for these veterans, filled with hope and the promise of a brighter future.

Check out more photos from the event here.