THE VETERANS' PRESS: Standing up for a Stand Down

According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of “stand-down” is a relaxation of status…or force from an alert or operational posture. It’s something I tell my dog, Sailor, when someone walks by our house toward the bank of mailboxes as she launches into a barking rage. She is a chiweenie, so, naturally, it does no good. Stand-down means nothing to her.

However, in the military world, a “Stand Down” for a veteran can be life changing. In times of war, combat units needed a place of safety in order to rest and recover from the exhaustion of the battlefields. At secure camp bases, troops could take care of personal needs, get clean uniforms, receive medical care and a warm meal…they could receive mail and enjoy the camaraderie with their fellow veterans in a safe environment.

Today, Stand Down refers to a grassroots, community-based program designed to help veterans, with specific focus on the homeless. The concept came from two Vietnam Veterans, Robert Van Keuren and Dr. Jon Nachison. With the support of local veterans in the San Diego area, the first Stand Down was held during the summer of 1988. Due to its popularity, this event has steadily grown throughout the nation. It was estimated that in 2009, more than 42,000 veterans received assistance at Stand Downs from hundreds of volunteers and organizations. The success of a Stand Down lies with the philosophy of “a hand up — not a handout.”

Many veterans suffer from chronic issues of PTSD, isolation and mistrust of the government. Veterans can come to a Stand Down where various agencies, resources and services provide the promise of addressing multiple problems at one time and place. Veterans are provided with food, clothing, medical, legal and mental health assistance, job counseling and referral. Some Stand Downs offer sleeping bags, veterinarian services and military surplus gear. It can provide a safe environment to connect with people who have shared experiences. It can provide hope.

This year the North Idaho Stand Down is sponsored by the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Elks Lodge and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It will be held on Saturday, May 7 at North Idaho College from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is open to all veterans and family members at no cost. There will be Starbucks Coffee, a pancake breakfast and a Texas Roadhouse lunch. In addition, many vendors will be there to provide services and information to veterans. Call 208-964-2819 with questions.