Stand Down continues today

The Stand Down continues today at Cotton Rosser Pavilion at Beckwourth Riverfront Park from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Veterans should bring their Veterans Affairs medical ID card or a veterans ID card. If no ID is available, they can be checked in with the appropriate agencies on-site.

“This event is benefitting me because of networking. I didn’t know what all was available for me, and I’m new to the area. When I retire in a year or so, the networking I got today will be helpful, and it was nice meeting my fellow veterans. We all have something in common, we can all relate,” said Donna Schwan.

Schwan volunteered at the event with the American Legion. She has been in the military for 31 years – most of which was active duty with the Army until recently, when she became a reservist. This was the first year she attended a Stand Down event.

“I’m enjoying it. It’s nice to see so many veterans here. I didn’t realize there was going to be all of these services. People really show appreciation for us here, too, saying things like ‘thank you for your service.’ Hearing stuff like that makes us feel good,” said Fernando Vasquez.

Vasquez is a Vietnam veteran who served in the Army. This was the first year he attended the Stand Down event. He said he heard about it after his son, who has also served in the military, attended Thursday’s event.