More than 1,000 veterans have stopped by the Johnston County Register of Deeds Office to obtain their “Thank-A-Vet” photo ID cards since the program began last year.
Johnston County Register of Deeds Craig Olive started the program in November 2016 to honor veterans by offering them an alternative to carrying their DD-214 discharge paperwork in their pockets. The card, when presented, entitles Veterans to special discounts and incentives from over 100 participating local businesses. It is an effort to show Veterans they are appreciated.
“It is an honor to provide this program to our well-deserving veterans that stood up and fought for our freedom,” Olive said. “It has been a great success so far and it will continue as long as I am in office.”
One of the responsibilities of the Register of Deeds office is to record veterans’ certificates of discharge (DD-214) in Johnston County. The “Thank-A-Vet” program also serves as an incentive for veterans to record their DD-214. Recording the DD-214 ensures safe keeping of this important document and will not become a public record. Many veterans are not eligible for a VA card or any other type of military ID; therefore, are not able to take advantage of the military discounts. This card will allow these veterans security in knowing their personal documents are safe without risk of identity theft or damage to their DD-214.
One special veteran had tears in his eyes as he received his “Thank-A-Vet” card. He told the Register of Deeds staff that he was spit on upon his return from Vietnam and felt so humbled to have his service honored in such way.
Mr. Olive encourages all veterans to stop by to record their DD-214 and obtain their “Thank-A-Vet” card. In addition, the office also encourages county merchants to contact the office to sign up to be a participating business. The Register of Deeds office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 – 5:00 and can be reached at 919-989-5161.
