PLATTSBURGH — This Saturday, Plattsburgh’s Crete Memorial Civic Center will be transformed into a go-to place for veterans looking for answers and assistance.
The American Military Retirees Association and Clinton County Veterans Service Agency, in conjunction with the Fort Drum Retiree Council, will host the informational event for the area’s veterans, military reti
rees and active members of the military, as well as their families and caregivers.
“Everything that deals with veterans’ issues will be provided that day,” said Steven Bowman, director of the Clinton County Veterans Service Agency.
Mayor Donald Kasprzak has proclaimed Saturday Military Appreciation Day in conjunction with the event.
The event will feature exhibits by more than 50 federal, state and local entities offering assistance with everything from health-care and financial issues to legal and insurance matters.
“It’s information and opportunities for veterans,” said Kathy Baumgarten, membership marketing coordinator for the American Military Retirees Association.
Members of the Fort Drum Legal Office will be at the event to offer information on wills and powers of attorney for military retirees. And William Kraus, acting director of the New York State Division of Veterans Affairs, will be on hand to discuss a variety of topics, including veterans’ home loans, burial services and disability and survivor benefits.
Counseling services, blood-pressure checks and information on employment opportunities will also be available.
“I think its important for the veterans and their family members to stop in and see what’s
available and kind of bone up on their benefits,” Bowman said.
“We hope that people who serve the military community will attend also,” Baumgarten said.
The Crete Center, which is wheel-chair accessible, will open for the event at 9 a.m. Opening ceremonies will kick off at 9:15 a.m., followed by a briefing from a representative of Defense Finance Accounting Services at 10:30 a.m.
The Drew Crew Cloggers will provide live entertainment at 11:30 a.m., and a representative of TRICARE Military Healthcare will discuss military healthcare program changes at 12:30 p.m.
Congressman Bill Owens and Assembly memberJanet Duprey are also expected to attend, according to Baumgarten.
The event, which will conclude at 2 p.m., is free and open to the public and will be broadcast live on WIRY Hometown Radio.
Refreshments, as well as wheelchairs and scooters, will be available.
Email Ashleigh Livingston: alivingston@pressrepublican.com
