House to honor Ruth Coleman

Ruth A. Coleman, the former executive officer of the CNMI Veterans Affairs Office, will be honored by House members for her exemplary service and numerous contributions to the Commonwealth and its people.

Coleman has recently resigned from her position to work for the veterans health administration which is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

In a resolution prefiled by Rep. Teresita Santos (Ind-Rota), she recognized and commended the former veterans affairs official for her commitment and dedication to service.

It was in 2006 when Coleman was certified in training, responsibility, involvement, and preparation of veterans affairs claims by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. In the same year, she was appointed the executive officer of NMI Veterans Affairs Office where she managed and supervised all programs relating to veterans benefits and health, planned and directed all operations of the veterans cemetery, and coordinated all military and department of defense activities within the Commonwealth. She also wrote legislation, interpreted applications of the law and was well versed in public relations.

The resolution stated that despite her overwhelming duties, Coleman still managed to volunteer and serve in numerous committees and organizations.

“It would be extremely difficult to find a person with similar compassion and devotion to her country and public service, like that of Ms. Coleman, a woman who has dedicated her life to her country and to the residents, most especially to U.S. military personnel and veterans of the CNMI,” stated the resolution, adding that Coleman has meaningfully served the people of the CNMI for 11 years.

Coleman attended Mount Carmel School and Marianas High School before she moved to Guam. After completing high school she enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1978 and began her career in the servive.

She also attended numerous programs and received certificates of completion for various trainings in different fields.

Coleman received her associates of applied science in metals technology from the College of the Air Force; associates of applied science instructor technology from the College of the Air Force. In 1998, Coleman retired from U.S. Air Force after 20 years of exemplary and praiseworthy military service.