VET TO VET - An Event for Vets by Vets at Castleton American Legion

Area military veterans are invited to gather on Sunday, July 15, at the American Legion Post 50, Route 4A, Castleton, VT, for a VET to VET Forum from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. This will be the first in a series of "VET to VET" forums presented by LTC Terry Williams, US Army, Retired, of Poultney. Having served for over 35 in the US military, Williams knows that transitioning home is not always easy for the Veteran. The purpose of the series is to provide an informational exchange between US military veterans, their families and friends. Each forum panel will consist of either retired or active duty military persons who have information, a story to tell or a hand to lend.

Representative Robert Helm of Fair Haven, VT will moderate the forum. Bob, who served in the US Marine Corp in Vietnam, is a life member of the American Legion, VFW, Vietnam Veterans of America, and Disabled Veterans of America.

SFC Richard Gallo, US Army, Retired, spent 21 years in the US military and now serves as Vermont Veteran's Outreach Specialist for Rutland and Bennington Counties and with the Vermont Army National Guard Family Programs. Richard is a lifetime member of VFW Post #648 and American Legion Post 31 and will discuss VT Veteran Affairs and its programs.

CPT Scott Lobdell, US Army, Retired, serves on the Governor's Veteran Advisory Council and will speak about Military Benefits available to Vermont Veterans.

Major Shannon B. Blake, US Army, Retired, talk about his program, Warriors S.O.A.R., (Support*Outreach*Assistance*Recovery), "Where America Wounded Heroes rediscover their ability to once again Rise-up and SOAR."

SFC Bruce Fowler, US Army, Retired, a disabled combat veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom is the founder of Fowler's Rest and Respite Ranch in Whiting, VT. Bruce will address the therapeutic qualities of hands-on work for challenged veterans. His 12 acre "ranch" provides training in farming, food preparation, wood working and diesel repair.

For further information on this event, contact Dolores Luebke, Organizer, at (802) 645-0109 or luebked@aim.com.