This weekend on In Focus, we’re taking time to recognize the contributions of New Yorkers who served in the military and ways to support veterans across the state.

JoDee Kenney was joined by Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel, who says his father’s service in Vietnam inspired his public service and work for veterans across the county. Looking back on his childhood, Wendel said, as an adult, he now realizes how combat left an impression on his father, particularly PTSD. In Chautauqua County, Wendel said, the Veteran Services Agency works tirelessly to reach out in the community to connect veterans with benefits and provide those who need, transportation to VA and other appointments. Since 2017, the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program in Chautauqua County has grown, and Wendel said it continues to add activities and events providing connections and support among veterans.

For Chautauqua County veterans looking to take the first steps on their journey to connect with benefits, click here.

You can watch the full interview with Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel in the video player above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting upstate New York on In Focus with JoDee Kenney every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.