A Marine Corps Reserve veteran becomes the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) first Military Veterans Agricultural (MVA) Liaison. This news release from USDA says Karis T. Gutter, the current USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services (FFAS), will serve in the role to facilitate formal relationships between USDA and other government agencies and non-profit organizations to strengthen USDA support for veterans.

“Many of America’s veterans come from our rural communities, and are often drawn back to the land upon returning to civilian life,” said Deputy Secretary [Krysta] Harden. “Veterans are key to building our future generation of farmers, land stewards and conservationists. USDA already has a number of initiatives to help veterans find meaningful work in agriculture upon returning home, but this new position will help coordinate our efforts and make programs easier to navigate. I look forward to Karis’ leadership as we continue to support America’s heroes.”

Gutter, native of Terry, Mississippi (pop. 1,099), began his career in public service as an enlisted United States Marine Corp Reservist. Gutter served as a Corporal in the Marine Corps as a communications and field radio operator for six years and participated in humanitarian relief in support of September 11 and Hurricane Katrina. Prior to his USDA service, Gutter worked for the Hinds County Board of Supervisors in Mississippi and on Capitol Hill as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02).

This new position was created by the 2014 Farm Bill.