ASHVILLE, AL, September 14, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Dennis "Jay" Gibbs has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Mr. Gibbs currently serves as the executive director of Three Hots and a Cot, a role he has held since 2020. In this capacity, he manages a multifaceted organization dedicated to supporting veterans, overseeing approximately 10 locations staffed by eight employees and providing housing for around 50 veterans at any given time. His leadership encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including delivering public speeches, writing grant proposals, resolving personnel and veteran-related issues, managing administrative paperwork at the main facility in Clay/Center Point and traveling between program sites to ensure operational continuity. Mr. Gibbs's expertise in empathy, counseling, grant writing and organizational leadership is widely recognized within his field. He considers his greatest achievement to be the positive transformation experienced by veterans who have participated in the organization's programs, especially those who maintain contact to share how their lives have improved as a result of their involvement.
Prior to his current position, Mr. Gibbs worked as a peer support specialist with Veterans Affairs Mental Health beginning in 2014. This role allowed him to leverage his lived experiences and certified peer counselor credentials to assist fellow veterans navigating mental health challenges. His ability to empathize and provide guidance was instrumental in helping others overcome obstacles similar to those he faced after his own military service.
From 2006 to 2009, Mr. Gibbs served as a police officer in Savannah, Georgia. His transition into law enforcement followed his military service and reflected a continued commitment to public service. During this period, he encountered significant personal challenges that shaped his understanding of trauma and resilience—insights that would later inform his work with veterans and first responders.
Mr. Gibbs began his professional journey in the United States Army, enlisting shortly after turning 18 in the wake of the September 11 attacks. He completed two tours of duty in Iraq and was wounded in combat, earning the Purple Heart in 2005 and the Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device. Military service is a longstanding tradition in his family; both his father and grandfather served before him, and his son has since become a police officer after completing military service. Notably, all three generations were stationed at the same duty station during their respective careers.
In pursuit of academic growth following his separation from the military, Mr. Gibbs undertook coursework in criminal justice before joining the Savannah Police Department. In 2012, he enrolled at Southeastern Bible College in Birmingham for pre-seminary pastoral ministries coursework but ultimately left before completing the program. He became a certified peer counselor in 2014, marking the beginning of his formal involvement with veteran support organizations.
Mr. Gibbs credits his success to an interconnected network of personal and professional influences. The values and resilience instilled by military service provided a foundation for overcoming adversity and fostering camaraderie with fellow veterans. The support of his children and mentors has been instrumental throughout his journey, as has the sense of purpose derived from leading Three Hots and a Cot. He emphasizes the importance of relationships at pivotal moments in life, acknowledging that progress often depends on having supportive individuals present when needed most.
Beyond his primary professional roles, Mr. Gibbs is deeply engaged with civic organizations and community initiatives. He is the founder of CID's HEART, an organization established to honor a close friend lost during combat in Iraq while expanding support services to first responders alongside veterans. As president of the Pinedale Shores Property Owners' Association for four years—now serving in the third year of his second term—he has demonstrated ongoing dedication to local governance and community improvement.
His affiliations also include membership in the American Legion and alumnus status with the Wounded Warrior Project, reflecting a sustained commitment to veteran advocacy at both local and statewide levels. Mr. Gibbs frequently volunteers with disaster relief operations across Alabama and supports local churches through community food drives. His efforts have been recognized with several awards, including the Purple Heart (2005), the Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device, the Blount County distinction, and the Hometown Hero Award from Trussville.
Born in Gadsden, Mr. Gibbs finds fulfillment outside of work through outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking and other water sports. Family remains central to his life; he treasures time spent with his four children and four grandchildren. Supporting his youngest son's future is one of his greatest joys, as is actively participating in school activities and spending quality time together.
Looking ahead, Mr. Gibbs remains devoted to expanding public awareness for Three Hots and a Cot while continuing to respond compassionately to individuals seeking assistance regardless of their background or circumstances. He prefers not to set fixed long-term objectives but instead chooses to approach each day guided by empathy, service and an unwavering commitment to making a difference within his community.
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