Joe Simonelli

Joe Simonelli, commonly and affectionately called “COL Joe”, retired as a Colonel from the Army where he served for 30 years in positions that ranged in levels from tactical to senior policy in the Department of Defense. In his last three years in uniform, he served as the Chief of Staff of Arlington National Cemetery. Joe’s work with numerous Veteran Service Organizations (VSO) and Military Service Organizations (MSO) in supporting the military, veterans, and their families has made him an acknowledged—and passionate—expert in veterans’ affairs.

He understands and values the relationship between military and civilian communities, striving to build close relationships. He is often sought after for his advice and assistance regarding care for veterans and their families. In addition to an extremely successful military career, Joe has had the privilege of serving in distinguished positions in not-for-profit organizations and community outreach:

• Two years on an Advisory Committee and six years as a Board of Director for the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA);
• Member of the Board of Governors of the Army Navy Country Club, a member-only country club located in the Washington, DC area;
• Chair of Virginia Arlington County’s Military and Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (MVAC) and on the Arlington County’s World War I Commemorative Task Force;
• Member of the Board of Governors of USA Cares, a charitable organization that addresses the critical and unmet needs of post-9/11 service members, veterans and family members facing service related hardships;
• Member of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Military Retiree Council.