KENOSHA, Wis. — A U.S. Navy veteran with more than a decade of experience assisting veterans and their families has taken over as Kenosha County’s new Director of Veterans Services.
Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman announced Wednesday that Robert Swanson is now leading the Kenosha County Division of Veterans Services following the retirement of former Director Jennifer Blasi.
Pictured, from left: Veterans Benefits Specialist Justin Lowe, new Interim Director Rob Swanson and service dog Loki, Blasi, Veterans Benefits Specialist Danielle White, and former Veterans Services Representative Brad Behling.
“Jennifer has done an outstanding job of leading our Veterans Services Office over the last few years, and we wish her a long and happy retirement,” Kerkman said. “And while we’re sorry to see her go, I’m confident Rob will carry on the office’s tradition of providing excellent service to veterans in our community.”
Swanson was previously the county’s Assistant Director of Veterans Services, a position he held after joining the office in January 2024.
Before working for Kenosha County, Swanson served veterans through his roles as a Veterans Support Specialist and adjunct instructor at Gateway Technical College.
Swanson served in the U.S. Navy from 1998 until 2006 as a Work Center Supervisor and Hospital Corpsman. He is also a graduate of Herzing University, where he earned an Associate Degree in Medical Office Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management.
Swanson said being selected to lead the department is a tremendous honor.
“As a Navy veteran, I understand that the transition from military to civilian life can be filled with challenges, and I know how important it is to have someone in your corner,” Swanson said. “Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside veterans and their families, helping them access the benefits and resources they have earned through their service. Every conversation and every success story have reinforced why this work matters so deeply to me.”
Swanson is serving as director on an interim basis until a confirmation vote by the Kenosha County Board, which is expected in August.
Blasi, also a veteran, served in the U.S. Army before joining Kenosha County Veterans Services as an Office Associate in 2013. She became Assistant Director in 2016 and was confirmed as Director in January 2024.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve veterans in Kenosha County,” Blasi said. “Our Veterans Services team is truly a family, and I believe Rob and his staff will continue to provide high-quality, compassionate assistance to our veterans for many years to come.”
The Kenosha County Veterans Services Office assists veterans and their families with obtaining local, state and federal benefits, including helping veterans through the claims process.
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7 Responses
Do I need to have an appointment to inquire about filing for service related disability? Im a Vietnam veteran. I had a radical prostetectomy due to prostate cancer about 10 years ago. Im currently battling COPD. I’d like to find out if either are Agent Orange related and eligible for compensation.
PLEASE contact a VSO and get the benefits you deserve.
So my wife and I both worked for the same company and both got terminated same day when company folded. I have stage four lung cancer and my wife worked with me so she could spend last days with me. She is a veteran and did 8 years active duty with time served in Persian Gulf War.
I’m of age where Medicare was available and was able to “retire”. She needed benefits and we went to the VA for help for her. We were denied assistance because she was not disabled during her enlistment. REALLY? Okay but we werent looking for freebies and just help with medical. The gentlemen actually said we could fabricate injuries but would go before a board for evaluation. That’s not us!!! We dont look for handouts but it seems to be the practice for some. Sad…
I think it’s also income based. If you both are at a combined income of less than 70k a year, I believe you can be seen as your wife’s dependent? Not completely sure. Don’t give up…if she can be covered under VA care, that would lessen the financial burden perhaps? Good luck!
Jennifer helped me several times over the years .
She was always pleasant and informative .
That’s awesome that she was able to help you out. My heart is with all veterans who served this nation. I was very shocked and disappointed that my wife who was a veteran of 8 years including the gulf war was unable to get help when needed. Legitimately needed.
I wish him great success in assisting members of our armed service in getting help or the assistance they need. Thank you veterans for all you did.
On a side note, my wife got employment that provides health insurance for us both. The good Lord was watching over us as her employment happened shortly after being told sorry from the VA. Shame on those that are taking advantage of the system but… time marches on.