Volunteers sought to help with Stand Down

In times of war, exhausted combat units requiring time to rest and recover were removed from the battlefield to a place of relative security and safety. There troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy a warm meal, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and relax in a safe area, before going back out to where the action was.

Today, Stand Down refers to a grassroots, community-based program to help the local homeless, and in need of assistance, veterans and their families, with food, personal care supplies, haircuts, health care screening, eye care, dental care, VA benefits counseling, general benefits counseling, flu shots, legal and mental health assistance, just to name a few items provided.

This is the time to for the community to extend camaraderie, friendship, and to connect with the homeless and those in need veterans, and their families. Many veterans have suffered years of trying to adjust back to civilian life and have had a rough time of it. This program gives them a chance to contact VA counseling, for depression, FTSD, and spousal abuse counseling.

Volunteers and professionals give their time to put on this worthwhile event, such as the local chapters of the Vietnam Veterans of Americans, Disabled Americans Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, U.S. Marine League, National Guard, homeless shelter programs, health care providers, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans helping veterans programs, and you the citizens of Bonner County.

You can volunteer you help to this worth while program by donating you time, and expertise Contact: Russ Fankell 263-5419 or Doug Darling 263-5803

? Ross Jackman is the commander of the Disabled American Veterans chapter in Sandpoint.