Veterans Stand Down scheduled for May 13

By BRIAN WALKER

Staff Writer

COEUR d'ALENE — Veterans and their families will be the guests of honor during the North Idaho Veterans Stand Down at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds on Saturday, May 13.

The annual day of appreciation will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"It's for all veterans and their families," said Kecia Siegel, veterans coordinator at North Idaho College who is assisting with event organized by St. Vincent de Paul of North Idaho. "This is a way of thanking them for their service."

There is no admission. Attendees should bring a DD214 or military identification. About 300 veterans were served last year.

Services available include: medical, dental, legal, Veterans Affairs benefits help, counseling, veterinary care, bike repair, haircuts and a job fair.

A hot breakfast, lunch and coffee will be served. There will be free ice cream for attendees age 12 and younger.

For disadvantaged or homeless vets, there will be surplus items such as sleeping bags, backpacks, clothing and blankets. Vets will fill out a short questionnaire to qualify.

Other activities include a paintball arena, raffle for Buck knives and a military vehicle exhibition.

Eric Swanbeck, St. Vincent's veterans services coordinator, said the Stand Down is an opportunity for the community and volunteers to connect with the veteran population. The original Stand Down was modeled after a concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for veterans returning from combat.

Today, Stand Down refers to a community-based program to assist all veterans and their families. The philosophy is to offer a "hand up, not a handout."

Those who need transportation should call 215-1007.

For more information, call 664-3095 or email eric@stvincentdepaulcda.org.