Vernell Varnado, Snoop Dogg’s father, was recently honored by the City of Atlanta for his military service. The proclamation was presented by the mayor of Atlanta, Andre Dickens, and the Fire Chief, Roderick Smith, in honor of his military service during an Atlanta City Hall veterans recruiting event. Varnado, more affectionately known as “Poppa Snoop,” is a decorated Vietnam War veteran who will be receiving his third Purple Heart on Veterans Day.
It was all part of a broader push to hire more veterans. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Fire Chief Roderick Smith recognized Varnado with a proclamation. “We want to take this day to recognize you for serving selflessly and being injured in Vietnam,” said Chief Smith. “But more importantly, continuing to be a voice and advocate for veterans across the country.”
Varnado was inducted into the Army in December 1967. He served as a cannoneer with Battery B, 60th Artillery 4th Battalion home-based at Fort Bliss, Texas. He later was awarded multiple Purple Hearts for various wounds received in combat-a testament to his bravery and service.
The ceremony also continued to bring attention to the City of Atlanta‘s ongoing efforts to recruit and hire veterans, military service members, and their families into the city workforce. According to Mayor Dickens, “Veterans show up with a strong sense of duty and responsibility, and they approach their government roles with self-confidence, discipline, and strong organizational skills.”
But aside from the military services, Poppa Snoop gave various interviews and public appearances that he shared. He was featured on numerous shows like “Oh Drama” and “The Original OGs,” narrating his life experiences from being on thug streets to being an esteemed character. It’s a story of survival-the strong force of Original Gangster spirits.
Poppa Snoop has lent his voice to build awareness of the many challenges veterans and their families face and has supported them in their rights and needs. This commitment is exemplary, reflecting the courage and dedication he also showed while serving in the military.
Snoop Dogg has never shied away from boastful comments about his father’s accomplishments and hopped on his Instagram Story to show love, support, and pride in the proclamation. This recognition is merely weeks ahead of Veterans Day, on which he is set to receive a third Purple Heart-one more addition to an already illustrious career.
The event served to remember the service of Varnado but also made aware that sacrifices are to be made by the veteran and his family members. It was in remembrance and testimony to the courage and commitment made by those who served their country and a call to support and recognize their contributions.
From being a Vietnam War veteran to attaining the heights of a cultural icon and awareness for veterans, many have found his story to be quite substantial. It really speaks to what one man can truly do to impact not only his community but beyond.
Events like this continue to serve Atlanta’s veterans and create the ability to tie the community closer together in paying homage-a bond to last beyond their lifetime.
