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We, as Elks have always taken pride in the work we do with
and for our nation's veterans. Our efforts are second to none. On
Armed Forces Day, our local lodges have recognized the commitment of the
dedicated men and women who serve in our military. We honor the sacrifices
of these patriots on Memorial Day and pay tribute to them on Veterans Day for
securing the freedoms we enjoy today.
Our VAVS Representatives and VAVS Deputy Representatives,
with the assistance of local lodge volunteers, enhance the level of comfort of
veterans in our VA medical centers, State Veteran Homes and domiciliaries.
They also help those who use community-based outpatient clinics, as well as
those veterans who reside in assisted care living centers or continue to live
independently in their own homes.
The group that continues to fall thru the cracks, however, is
the homeless veterans. Because they don't use any services offered by the
Department of Veteran Affairs and have no permanent address, they have become
invisible to those who could or would help them. This phenomenon first
appeared during the Vietnam War before anything was known about post-traumatic
stress disorder. These individuals returned home, but left there hearts
and souls in the battlefields of Vietnam. As these homeless veterans get
older, they are more vulnerable to illness and the ravages of time on their bodies
and psyche. I strongly urge our local veteran volunteers, VAVS representatives,
VAVS Deputy representatives, and District and State Veterans Chairmen to make a
commitment to these homeless veterans. Contact the VA facilities in your
area and find out if there are plans for a Stand Down.
The Stand Down was started during the Vietnam War.
Troops were brought in from the front to get cleaned up, get a fresh change of
clothes and to pack their gear. Basically, that is what these Stand Downs
are. They provide the veterans with a shower, a haircut, and a clean
change of clothes. Comfort care kits are available. Preliminary
health screenings are given to those who want them. VA staff takes the
time to explain social services available to these veterans as well as job
training that will assist them in assimilating back into society. They are
then served a hot meal with the knowledge that there are people willing and
ready to help them.
You can help man these Stand Downs; you can supply comfort
care kits and clothing. Talk with the VA staff. Our lodges and
volunteers are only limited by the restrictions you place on yourself.
Please say "yes" one more time to these homeless veterans! We
then can say. "Welcome Home", and this time our veterans will
completely realize they are.
Thank you in advance for all that you and your lodge do to
help us in this most worthwhile endeavor.
Cordially and Fraternally,
C. Valentine Bates, PGER, Vice Chairman
Elks National Veterans Service Commission