Veterans event to be held Sept. 8

Veterans and their families will be honored with a program from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, in downtown Linden, Texas.

Organizers say the salute program is being held to provide community education about veterans issues such as dispelling myths, integration into the community, post-traumatic stress disorder, healing and veterans services.

The event will include a free dinner Saturday evening at Linden First United Methodist Church, at which 100 to 150 veterans and family members are expected.

On the square during this day, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled Veterans and Vietnam Veterans organizations will distribute information and offer assistance to veterans.

Also present will be a Mobile VA Unit, which is like an office on wheels that brings VA services to local areas, assisting veterans to make the transition from military to civilian life.

Other vendors and community supporters will be present, including a blacksmithing demonstration, live bands, face painting, a bounce house and a Top-20 car show.

The event is sponsored by organizations including the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service and the DAV, VFW, American Legion, the East Texas Veterans Resource Center and Lancer Legacy Ranch.