Health & Fitness
Veteran's Organizations: An Underutilized Asset For Our Young Veterans
There are many resources for our community's veterans, but many times, the most obvious can easily be overlooked.
Veteran's Day is here again. Our country's soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guard face new challenges and responsibilities at every turn. They are continually fighting a new kind of battle; one that does not have a foreseeable end or a defined enemy, the war on terrorism. Veteran's Day seems to gain more significance every year as the wars continue.
As a new generation of veterans is created, there are far more programs, groups and services available to them than in previous generations. One group seems to be overlooked by many veterans, young and old, veteran's organizations. The VFW and American Legion are two of the largest, but there are several groups that cater to specific wars or sustained injuries.
As many of us know, it's not always easy finding someone that can understand the demands and stress from serving in the Armed Forces, but local veteran's organizations can be a wonderful resource. That man that fought in Korea or a woman that was a nurse in Vietnam or even a fellow Iraq or Afghanistan veteran may have more of a perspective on what is experienced while serving our great country. This is an understanding that I have been able to experience firsthand. As a member of American Legion Dewey Lowman Post 109, I have heard the good and the bad about other member's time in the military, from WWII to Vietnam. It's a given, fellow service members will open up to each other. I can only hope our community's veterans will embrace this resource readily available to them.
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The American Legion is a huge part of our community. How many times have you seen the 27 Flags Unit in a 4th of July Parade or the Fireman's Parade? Dewey Lowman Post 109 holds ceremonies at the Arbutus flagpole for Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veteran's Day. I feel they are a constant, and much needed reminder of the sacrifices of so many. Their dedication to our community, not only reminds us of the importance of holidays that can be easily overlooked, but also instills us with patriotism.
If you know anyone that has served or is currently serving in the Armed Forces, and is interesting in joining the American Legion Dewey Lowman Post 109, please have them contact the post at 410-242-5956.