Tri County Veterans Stand Down 2008
What exactly is a stand down?
In the military a "stand down" is a chance for the troops on the front lines to leave the battle field and rest for a bit. The term originated during the United States action in Vietnam as a way to give the soldiers a respite from combat. Troops took care of personal needs, got clean uniforms, enjoyed warm meals, received medical care and had a chance to check mail and enjoy camaraderie.
The idea of today's Stand Down originated in 1988 with Robert Van Keuren and Dr. Jon Nachison, two military veterans in San Diego. It is now held in nearly 100 sites nationally each year.
What goes on during a Stand Down?
During the stand down people are on hand who can help with VA claims. Many of these people aren't even aware what they are entitled to or they are not sure where to begin. Employment counceling as well as physical, mental and deltal health providers are there to provide their services at no cost to the veterans. There are a lot of veterans who come through that are either homeless or on the verge of being homeless. That is why the stand down is so very important. We can put these people in touch with the people who can help them.
The Tri-County Veterans Stand Down is a two day event. Hot meals are served both days for the veterans as well as their families. In addition we have a small food bank that gives out food boxes to the needy. Though we wish we had the resources to give these out to everyone we simply just don't have enough so the food boxes are targeted for either the homeless or those on the verge of being homeless and hungry
