The Veterans Memorial Park of America on Friday hosted 20 Veterans who were able to talk with a representative from the office of Veterans Benefits Administration from Fayetteville.
“The Veterans Community Outreach Center served its mission today for the first time,” said Angela Norris, one of the organizers of the event. Attendees came from Columbus and Bladen counties.
One of the purposes for the Outreach Center at the park was to provide a central location where veterans could meet with staff from the Veterans Administration to learn about services, handle problems and ensure all veterans are aware of what benefits are available through the VA.
Veterans came by and talked with the representatives, and had the opportunity to also talk with staff from Columbus Regional Healthcare Systems and Cape Fear Life Care. Veterans had the opportunity for blood pressure checks and got information about planning ahead from Cape Fear Life Care. Veterans were served donuts and croissants in the morning and pizza at lunch.
The veterans were greeted by committee members of the Veterans Memorial Park of America.
When asked about the event, Jeff Carland, an Army veteran and VMPA BOD Member, said the event was “very positive” for the community.
“This event helped veterans that needed attention for a long time,” he said. “We want to give a very special thanks to the VA Reps for taking the time to help others.”
Friday’s gathering was the first VA event at the park and the new outreach center. The VA will be back Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., by appointment only.
“We will continue to plan more of these events,” Norris said.
