All The Way Home
The Tri-state Veterans Conference
Saturday May 17th, 2008
Five Flags Center, Dubuque, IA, 9am – 4pm
Military service is considered our nation’s highest form of citizenship and has been freely accepted by millions of men and women throughout U.S. history. There are an estimated 23.5 million living American vets, and 13 percent of tri-state residents, as many as 12,000, are military service veterans.
Because of their selfless commitment to our country, U.S. veterans are eligible for a variety of services, both federal and state, to assist them and their families. Veterans administration benefits include: compensation/pension, health care, pharmacy, education, home loans, life insurance, vocational training and rehabilitation, and burial and survivors benefits. Such services can prove essential to helping vets recover from wartime injuries, readjust to civilian life, build a career, and raise their families.
The Need
Military service changes lives. Common are the stories of men and women who enter the military without direction or purpose in life and return home stronger, more focused individuals. Unfortunately, many of those who experienced combat also were damaged physically and emotionally – scars that often last a lifetime. Even those not directly impacted by battle are entitled to treatment befitting our most respected citizens.
Many veterans, however, are unaware of the full scope of services available to them or are unsure of how to access services to which they are entitled. Additionally, some may not seek services or information due to fear of the stigma attached to reaching out for help.
Tri-State Veterans Conference Goals
• The Tri State Veterans Conference will provide a forum for veterans and their families to access services available in Dubuque and the surrounding area.
• By making these services available in one place, the conference will empower veterans to seek and receive services intended for them and their families.
• The conference will provide an appropriate forum for the Dubuque community to thank veterans for their service to our country.
By offering services and information in a family-friendly and fun atmosphere, the Tri-State Veterans Conference will reach those veterans who normally would not seek services due to fear of stigma, as well as those who do not know where to turn for help. Nationally recognized and respected speakers will draw veterans who may not otherwise attend such an event. Local musical performers and fun activities for children will add to the conference’s appeal for a vet’s entire family. Spouses and children will be better able to support their veterans and encourage them to seek services.
Quick Reference Details
When: Saturday, May 17, 2008, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Five Flags Center
Purpose: To thank our community’s veterans and military families for their military service and to showcase federal, state, and local programs and services specially geared toward veterans’ issues.
Event Co-Chairs: Brig. General Robert “Bob” Felderman and Eldon Herrig
Audience: Veterans and military families, Interested members of the community
Speakers: Rocky Bleier – Vietnam veteran and retired Pittsburgh Steeler
Charlie Plumb – Vietnam POW
Activities: Booths with up to 100 state and local organizations with programs for veterans and their families
Entertainment: Local musicians performing and activities for kids. Speakers will be available to meet attendees.