AUSTIN — Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D. announced the next installment of the VLB "Continued Service Series" featuring U.S. Air Force Veteran and Texas State Representative Carl Tepper.

The Texas General Land Office (GLO) and the VLB started this initiative with the goal of highlighting members of the Texas Legislature who are Veterans of the Armed Forces. Through detailed interviews, the GLO and VLB are helping Veterans share the incredible stories of their military careers, how the Texas Legislature is working to support our Veterans, advice for fellow Veterans, and much more.

"Here at the VLB, we strive to ensure that the stories of our Veterans are preserved and celebrated," said Commissioner Buckingham. "Through VLB's 'Continued Service Series,' we are helping Veterans who have gone on to serve in the Texas Legislature share the wisdom and strength they have gained from a life dedicated to service. As this series uplifts these Veterans' voices, Texans will gain a deeper appreciation for the work of Veterans who choose to continue their service to our state and nation."

During his interview, Representative Tepper touched on many important topics, including Veteran employment and life after military service. "I want employers to know, and I want young Veterans to know that they are as capable as they ever were in the military, and they will be even more capable out of the military,' said Representative Tepper. "Being a Veteran has absolutely enhanced my life."

Watch Representative Tepper's full interview by clicking the image below:

The Honorable Carl Tepper represents the 84th District, which lies entirely within Lubbock County, Texas. He serves on the House Committees on Appropriations and Urban Affairs. He began his service with the United States Air Force after graduating high school and was a military flyer (C-130 Flight Engineer) with the 50th Tactical Airlift Squadron, the “Red Devils.” While in the military, Sergeant Tepper served in the Persian Gulf War and received the prestigious Air Medal. He is currently a board member of the Lubbock Corps of The Salvation Army as well as a Life Member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2466. 

The "Continued Service Series" is a separate initiative from the VLB's Voices of Veterans program. Any Veteran interested in including his or her story in the Voices of Veterans oral history program should contact the VLB at 512-475-1248.