Veteran Service Knows No County Lines

Operation Veteran and Caregiver Support held our Muster & Mingle event on Wednesday September 28. The evening started with an amazing meal donated by City Barbeque on Miller Lane, and while veterans were eating, Marc Cantrell with the American Red Cross gave an update on current conditions with Hurricane Ian and how those in attendance could help. We also hosted Penny from the Miami County Auditors Office, who helped several of the veterans present expand their Homestead Exemption benefits. Kay made the rounds to our Vietnam era veterans, getting all who were interested started in the process for the Quilts of Valor application.

Director Chris North from Shelby County Veterans Services came and spoke about all of the resources available from his office. There were several counties represented, and while he couldn’t speak to all county offices, he was able to share some possible solutions for some problems presented. He also cautioned the veterans on taking part in any lawsuits regarding Camp Lejeune. He eagerly made himself available after his presentation to any veterans with additional questions.

On Thursday September 22, Operation Veteran and Caregiver Support participated in the Preble County Veteran’s Resource Fair. There were dozens of veteran organizations in attendance, and even though it was windy, there was a great turnout of not only veterans. In fact, it wasn’t just veterans, we also met quite a few family members and caregivers. Everyone was eager to learn more about how we could help them with their daily quality of life and to get more information on our Muster & Mingle. We have had limited reach that far west, and were really happy to make new connections. We had several of the veterans we met that day travel to join us for our Muster & Mingle, which was a great reminder that true service of veterans knows no county lines.