Gov. Jerry Brown has announced the appointment of Coby Petersen, 50, of Wilton, as the deputy secretary of Veterans Homes at the California Department of Veterans Affairs.

Petersen is a retired U.S. Army Colonel. He was the senior army advisor to the U.S. Army Adjutant General of California from 2010 to 2014, chief of future operations in the 3rd U.S. Army, Kuwait from 2009 to 2010 and brigade and battalion commander of the U.S. Army 174th Infantry Brigade from 2006 to 2009.

Petersen was the deputy fire support coordinator for the 3rd Marine Division, U.S. Pacific Command from 2003 to 2006 and served in multiple positions for the 1st Infantry Division, Germany of the U.S. Army from 2000 to 2003, including battalion executive officer and chief of plans officer in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

He served as brigade personnel officer in the Theater Support Brigade from 1998 to 2000, battalion fire support officer in the 5-87th infantry battalion from 1996 to 1998, training officer in Fifth Army West from 1994 to 1996 and served in various other positions for the U.S. Army from 1987 to 1994.

"Mr. Petersen is a welcome addition to the Veterans Homes of California,” said CalVet Undersecretary for Veterans Homes Diane Vanderpot. “His experience and management expertise will assist us in continuing our history of service to California’s veterans."

The Department operates eight veterans homes in the state including the veterans home in Yountville that was established in 1884 and the newest homes in Fresno and Redding which were opened in October of last year. The homes are opened to veterans over the age of 55 or disabled.

Information regarding the application process, levels-of-care and other benefits can be found at the CalVet Web site at www.calvet.ca.gov .