Justan Mounts has been named Rowan County’s new veterans services director. He will begin the job on Dec. 3.

A veteran of the Navy, Mounts moved to Rowan County in 2011 with his wife, Ashlyn, after an honorable discharge.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Lees-McRae College and a master’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Cincinnati.

Before joining the Navy, Mounts worked for the Avery County Rescue Squad as a lieutenant, supervising special operations and diving. He joined the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office after leaving the Navy, where he has served as a deputy for the past six years.

Mounts is an avid hunter and fisherman. He is also the head coach for Pfeiffer University’s collegiate cheer and dance program.